Japan and the Philippines have agreed to work toward achieving a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific region by strengthening security cooperation.

Japan will also continue to support building infrastructure and promoting the peace process in Mindanao between the Philippine government and Muslim rebels, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said Friday after meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte.

"As we are both maritime nations sharing basic values and strategic interests, we will strengthen coordination in tackling important challenges, including the realization of a free and open Indo-Pacific based on the rule of law," Abe told a joint news conference held at his office.