PH seeks Japan backing for trans-Pacific trade bloc bid

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines is seeking support from Japan for its bid to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), one of the world’s largest free trade blocs. Trade Secretary Cristina Roque said she raised the possibility of Japan endorsing the Philippines’ bid — formally submitted in November 2025 — during a meeting earlier this May with Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya. There are three key requirements for accession into the CPTPP: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is scheduled to fly to Tokyo on May 26 for a four-day state visit, where he is expected to meet Japanese […]... Keep on reading: PH seeks Japan backing for trans-Pacific trade bloc bid

Original source: Philippine Daily Inquirer