# Japan-Philippines relations

Ghosts of the Occupation: Japan’s Military Return to the Philippines Sparks a Historical Reckoning

The recent deployment and missile testing by Japanese Self-Defense Forces in the Philippines has reignited deep-seated historical trauma regarding WWII atrocities. While aimed at modern deterrence, the move faces significant backlash from those who view Japan's military return as an affront to the millions of Filipinos who suffered under the 1940s occupation.