Scholar Proposes Taiwan, Philippines, Japan Defense Pact
The proposed trilateral cooperation aims to counter regional security challenges along the first island chain.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Military
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Renato Cruz De Castro, a professor at De La Salle University, has proposed a trilateral defense cooperation between Taiwan, the Philippines, and Japan. This collaboration is designed to link defense postures and resources to address regional security concerns.
Why it matters
The proposal aims to help these nations leverage their limited national capabilities against expanding Chinese operations along the first island chain. It reflects a strategic shift following the Philippines' 2024 adoption of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
Approximately 80 percent of Philippine territory is maritime, necessitating a robust defense posture. The proposal follows Japan's participation in Exercise Balikatan 2026, where a ground self-defense force launcher fired two Type 88 anti-ship missiles.
The players
Renato Cruz De Castro
He is a distinguished professor at De La Salle University who specializes in international relations and security studies.
Sanae Takaichi
She serves as the Prime Minister of Japan and leads a nation increasingly involved in regional security exercises.
The details
De Castro suggested that defense cooperation could be achieved through non-public collaboration to link defense outlooks. The effort is viewed as a necessary response to regional tensions, especially since former leader Rodrigo Duterte realized in 2019 that diplomatic appeasement of China had failed.
Timeline
2019: Former President Rodrigo Duterte recognized the failure of Chinese appeasement.
2024: The Philippines adopted the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.
2026: Japan participated in Exercise Balikatan 2026.
October 20, 2026: Renato Cruz De Castro presented the proposal at a forum in Taipei.
Political Context
Opponents of increased regional defense integration often cite the risk of escalating tensions with China. Concerns typically focus on the potential for such alignments to provoke retaliatory economic or diplomatic measures from Beijing.
The potential formation of a trilateral defense pact could significantly alter regional geopolitical stability and maritime navigation for international trade. For the 250,000 Filipinos currently working in Taiwan, these developments may influence long-term employment security and consular safety planning.
The takeaway
This proposal highlights the growing push for middle powers to build cooperative security networks to offset regional dominance by larger neighbors. Strengthening non-public defense ties remains a key strategy for nations seeking to maximize their limited resources.
Further reading
For additional context on regional security shifts, visit the Military section.
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