Japanese ships in Subic for 3-day port visit

Japanese naval ships docked in Subic Bay. Photo from Philippine Navy

Japanese naval ships docked in Subic Bay, Olongapo, on Wednesday for a three-day port call before it heads home to Japan.

The visit of the ships from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Escort Division comes as Russian naval vessels are docked in Manila Bay for a five-day visit that started last Monday.

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The ships of Escort Division Four, JS Inazuma (DDG-105) and JS Suzutsuki (DD-117), are led by Captain Atsushi Minami, the Philippine Navy said in a statement.

The ships are in the country to replenish supply, conduct maintenance work, and for crew rest after conducting counter-piracy operations at the Gulf of Aden.

The commander of JMSDF Escort Division is also expected to pay a courtesy call on the commander of the Naval Education Training and Command.

“The visiting Navy vessels will also hold a Passing Exercise with the Philippine Navy off the waters of Corregidor Island on Friday.

The Philippine Navy said the visit is seen to boost “the already strong relationship” with the JMSDF, as it also a chance for the two navies “to promote camaraderie and naval diplomacy.” TVJ