The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) has just capped a 10-day Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HA/DR) training with the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) at Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui, San Antonio, Zambales.

(Photo from Embassy of Japan)

The activity was conducted from Sept. 28 to Oct. 8, 2021.

The training was part of KAMANDAG5-2021 (“Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma mula sa Dagat”, or Allies of Warriors from the Sea)--an annual joint exercise between the PMC and Unitec States (US) Marine Corps.

"The JGSDF deployed a 25-personnel training unit from the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade and other units, along with HA/DR Equipment from Japan, to be part of the exercise," the Embassy of Japan said in a statement Friday afternoon, Oct. 8.

"Upon deployment, they strictly observed all COVID-19 (coronavirus disease) health and safety guidelines and quarantine rules set by the Philippine Government, particularly the protocols from the IATF-EID," it added.

The IATF-EID refers to the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases.

This was the JGSDF’s fourth participation to the Exercise KAMANDAG, and the third in the said exercise’s HA/DR training.

During the KAMANDAG opening ceremony, Major Kamiakito Yasutomo, JGSDF training unit commander, emphasized the importance of the exercise for Japan and the Philippines.

He noted that both Japan and the Philippines are prone to natural disasters such as earthquake, typhoon and flood. Joint training in improving capabilities and knowledge sharing, he added, are vital efforts in addressing the countries' common experiences with natural disasters.

In addition, Major General Ariel Caculitan, PMC commandant highlighted the responsibility and preparedness of the military as “First Responders” in addressing disaster relief.

Japan reiterated the importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and based on the rule of law, democratic values, territorial integrity, transparency, and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Japan also underscored its intention to work together with the Philippines, the US, and other partner countries through a wide range of activities and cooperation for peace, stability, and prosperity in our regions and beyond.

Back in 2013, the Japan Ministry of Defense and the Japan Self-Defense Forces deployed to the Philippines a total of 1,180 personnel, three vessels, and 16 aircraft for medical assistance and relief supplies in the areas affected by typhoon "Yolanda".

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Japanese forces cap training on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief