Japanese warships visit Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - Two Japanese warships visited Manila recently to refill their supplies and to boost the security ties between the Philippines and Japan.

The JS Akebono and JS Hamagiri of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Escort Six Division arrived at the port of Manila last Sunday for a three day-visit. 

“The visit is expected to promote stronger ties and military cooperation between the Philippine Navy and Japan Maritime Self Defense Force,” Philippine Navy spokesman Lieutenant Commander Gregory Fabic said.

The Japanese contingent led by Capt. Tsutomu Iwasawa visited the Navy headquarters and paid a courtesy call on Chief of Naval Staff Rear Adm. Jesus Millan. The Philippine Navy also hosted a welcome reception for the officers and crew of the ships.

The two ships conducted counter-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden before heading for the Philippines, its former colony.  

Both the Philippines and Japan are embroiled in a territorial row with China, which has been flexing its muscles to assert its territorial claims in the region. 

China has occupied contested areas in the West Philippine Sea including those that are part of the Philippines ’continental shelf. Japan and China are also claiming ownership of the Senkaku islands in the East China Sea. 

Japan has vowed to enhance its security relations with the Philippines and to further cooperate on the defense of remote islands, territorial seas and maritime interests.