The Embassy of Japan recently hosted a reception for Philippine government officials, including representatives from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), lawmakers, members of the diplomatic corps, and defense attachĂ©s to celebrate the 72nd Japan Self-Defense Forces Day at Japanese Ambassador Kitagawa Katsuro’s residence.
During the reception, National Security Adviser Eduardo S.L. Oban Jr. said the recent progress in defense and security cooperation between Japan and the Philippines serves as a cornerstone of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.
He added he is determined to address common challenges, including regional stability, supply chain resilience, and maintaining maritime order through coordination among like-minded countries.
For his part, Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. stressed the importance of Japan and the Philippines working together in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.
He also highlighted how the two countries are strengthening deterrence by utilizing various frameworks and initiatives to advance their growing defense cooperation.
In his remarks, Ambassador Kitagawa Katsuro noted the 72-year history of JSDF reflects its continued adaptation to the changing demands of the times.
Looking back on the last 10 years in particular, he said that while firmly maintaining Japan’s path as a peaceful nation, the Self-Defense Forces have transformed into a more capable and trusted organization that can respond to both domestic and international demands.
Ambassador Kitagawa also cited Japan’s foreign policy of building a more resilient and prosperous region as a whole, including through the utilization of the revised Defense Equipment Transfer Policy and the updated “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”
The event also featured a video message from Japan’s Minister of Defense Koizumi Shinjiro and a presentations of defense equipment.
