They are treaty allies of the United States and the three have been among the most vocal critics of China’s assertive actions in the region.

Tokyo, Manila to establish ‘strategic dialogue,’ move toward defense equipment, technology cooperation - Anadolu Ajansı

An "increasingly severe" security environment has made deepening security ties with the Philippines a necessity, Japan's defence chief said Monday after a meeting with his counterpart in Manila. "Secretary (Gilberto) Teodoro Jr and I firmly concurred that the security environment surrounding us is becoming increasingly severe and it is