The Philippines is set to receive more defense equipment aimed at deterring threats in the Indo-Pacific region as Japan, which is a vocal supporter of the Philippines against aggression in South China Sea, continues to work on bolstering its ties with the country.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador to Manila Endo Kazuya signed and exchanged on Thursday, Dec. 5, diplomatic notes on the Official Security Assistance from Japan to the Philippines’ Department of National Defense (DND).
This came two days after Manila and Tokyo held maritime dialogue, where officials from both sides discussed the latest developments in surrounding seas, particularly the East and South China Seas.
Japan’s assistance covers a total amount of P611 million or 1.6 billion Japanese yen for the provision of coastal radar systems and automatic rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs).
Coastal radar systems are used to detect and track small fishing vessels as well as to manage vessel traffic. Meanwhile, RHIBs are lightweight and fast high-performance boats used by the military for coastal patrols and search and rescue.
According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), the assistance will support DND and the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ (AFP) efforts in securing the Philippines and improving the country’s capabilities to deter threats to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Japan said it offered the assistance as the Philippines faces important sea lanes, including the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait, and plays an important role in regional security.
"This project provides assistance to the Philippine Navy to strengthen maritime security capabilities and to the Philippine Air Force to help improve monitoring and surveillance capabilities," the Japanese Foreign Ministry said.
As both countries entered into a “strengthened strategic partnership,” Tokyo’s new set of assistance “reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to maritime stability and regional peace,” DFA said.
It is the second OSA of Japan for the Philippines. The Philippines is one of the first recipients of Japan’s OSA that was launched in 2023.