KERJA SAMA PERTAHANAN JEPANG DAN FILIPINA DALAM MENGHADAPI ESKALASI KETEGANGAN DI LAUT CHINA SELATAN

Abstract

The South China Sea has become a strategic region prone to conflict due to China’s unilateral claims, which are opposed by neighboring countries including the Philippines. Japan, although not a direct claimant, has actively pursued defense cooperation with the Philippines in response to China’s growing military activities. This study departs from the assumption that the cooperation is not merely symbolic, but strategically significant in maintaining regional stability. The research adopts a realist perspective and the concept of national interest to examine how both countries respond rationally to external threats. Using a qualitative method that combines literature review and interviews, the study finds that Japan–Philippines defense cooperation including the signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) and joint military exercises—aims to enhance deterrence against China. Furthermore, this partnership strengthens Japan’s influence in the Indo-Pacific security architecture. The findings suggest that such cooperation not only bolsters the strategic position of both countries, but also reflects a consistent effort to balance power in a maritime region shaped by geopolitical rivalry.