Demonstrating the growing military relations with the Philippines, a Japanese anti-submarine destroyer, the JS Onami arrived at Pier 15, South Harbor, Manila Sunday.
In a statement Monday, Capt. Lued Lincuna, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson, said the arrival of the 4,650-ton JS Onami marks the third time Japan Maritime Self Defense Force vessels visited the country for this year alone.
“The visit aims to strengthen the strong relationship between the PN and JMSDF. It will further enhance and sustain the promotion of peace, stability, and maritime cooperation within the region,” he added.
Lincuna was referring to the visit of the Japanese helicopter carrier, the JS Izumo (DDH-183) and the guided missile destroyer JS Sazanami (DDG-113) in Subic Bay, Zambales for a four-day goodwill visit June this year.
The JS Izumo is the biggest ship in the JMSDF and it weighs around 27,000 tons and measures 248 meters long.
Early January this year, the JS Inazuma (DDG-105) and JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) also docked in Subic Bay for a six-day goodwill visit.
Lincuna said the JS Onami is in the Philippines for a two-day visit. The ship is commanded by Cmdr. Hirotaka Okumura.
She is equipped with a variety of anti-submarine weaponry and sensors.
He added that the BRP Rajah Humabon (PF-11) rendered customary meeting point procedures off Corregidor Island and escorted the Japanese ship to her mooring area in Manila South Harbor. (PNA)
