The Philippines and Japan are moving to significantly broaden their agricultural alliance by incorporating the fisheries sector and establishing a permanent collaborative body.
This policy evolution is expected to be formalized during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s upcoming state visit to Tokyo later this month.
Preparatory discussions regarding the amendments were held between Japanese Ambassador Kazuya Endo and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.
The primary update to the existing Philippines-Japan Memorandum of Cooperation involves the official inclusion of fisheries, a move that recognizes the industry’s vital impact on food security, local livelihoods, and export growth.
A key feature of the revised agreement is the creation of a Joint Committee on Agriculture and Fisheries. This body is designed to institutionalize the partnership, ensuring that long-term projects and initiatives continue consistently regardless of changes in high-level leadership.
Secretary Tiu Laurel emphasized that the diplomatic engagement reinforces the enduring ties between the two nations.
“This visit underlines the strength and continuity of our partnership with Japan, especially as we pursue shared goals in food security, sustainability, and innovation,” he said.
“It also provides an opportunity to align our priorities and accelerate initiatives that will directly benefit Filipino farmers and fisherfolk.”
The signing of the amended memorandum during the presidential visit will serve as a formal commitment to deepening bilateral ties.
Furthermore, both nations are already preparing for a second Joint Committee meeting to be hosted by Japan in July, aimed at advancing technical dialogues and practical cooperation.