Ang Pahayagan

A delegation from the Philippine Fleet (PF), headed by PF Commander Rear Adm. Joe Anthony C. Orbe, strengthened bilateral maritime cooperation with the Japan Self-Defense Fleet (JSDF), and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) during its visit to Japan.

The PF delegation was welcomed by JSDF Commander Vice Adm. Katsushi Omachi in Yokosuka, with both commanders noting the growing frequency of cooperative activities between their fleets.

The engagement followed the recently signed Reciprocal Access Agreement between the Philippines and Japan, which seeks to expand collaboration in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, exercises, logistics, and personnel exchanges.

During the visit, Vice Adm. Omachi briefed Rear Adm. Orbe and his staff on the JSDF’s force structure and missions, before hosting them aboard JS Kumano, one of Japan’s multi-role frigates.

The following day, Rear Adm. Orbe paid a courtesy call on JMSDF Chief of Staff Adm. Akira Saito in Tokyo, who commended the growing cooperation between the two navies. During the call, both naval leaders echoed the importance of strengthening cooperation between the two nations, and working closer together toward maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific Region.

“This visit underscores the Philippine Fleet’s commitment to strengthening defense partnerships and enhancing maritime ties with its Japan counterparts, paving the way for a more robust and future-ready cooperation,” Orbe said.