Manila, Sept. 11 -- The Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan entered into force on Thursday, highlighting the "robust strategic partnership" between the two countries, the Department of National Defense (DND) said.

"The entry into force of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan carries forward our robust Strategic Partnership, validating the strength our people-to-people ties, shared values and international principles, and common purpose for the security and stability of the region," the DND said in a statement.

The RAA facilitates greater military cooperation between the two nations by streamlining procedures for the deployment of forces in each other's territories for jo...