Japan-Philippines Security & Energy Push: President Ferdinand Marcos told Japan’s National Diet that Manila and Tokyo are moving on a General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), while also signing a double taxation deal and expanding cooperation in AI, space, energy security and supply-chain resilience. Energy Buffers: The Philippines is setting up its first strategic petroleum reserve under POWERR Asia, with Japan set to send technical experts to kick off feasibility work. Japan Foreign Investment Screening: Japan enacted a revised law to tighten foreign investment checks, creating a cross-ministerial panel to block leakage of critical tech and intelligence. Demographics Shock: Japan’s population fell a record 2.5% to 123.05 million in 2025, deepening pressure on regional communities and the economy. Markets & FX: The yen is back near intervention levels, while the Nikkei climbed toward a record on Middle East peace hopes and AI optimism. Banking Cybersecurity: Japan’s three megabanks are expected to use a new OpenAI model to help detect cyberattacks. Auto Industry: Mitsubishi and Nissan plan joint pickup production in the US and collaborate on Kei-class cars in Japan. Business Immigration Backlash: Japan’s higher capital requirement for foreign “business manager” residency is sparking protests from entrepreneurs. Sports Fintech Tie-Up: Payment Options K.K. became an official partner of Yokohama FC.