Japan’s largest warship visits PH

JS Kaga (DDH 184), Japan’s largest warship, docks at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay. The warship’s visit to the Philippines is as part of its two-month tour around the South China Sea and Indian Ocean. / Allan Macatuno

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT- Japan’s largest warship arrived here on Saturday morning (Sept. 1) for a five-day good will visit.

Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s Escort Flotilla Four (JMSDF) — helicopter carrier JS Kaga (DDH 184) docked at the Alava Wharf at about 6 a.m.

It was escorted by Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) and Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105), which also docked behind the warship.

Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) and Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105) dock at the Alava Wharf in Subic Bay Freeport. The two ships escorted JS Kaga (DDH 184), Japan’s largest warship when it arrived im Subic Bay on Saturday morning. / Allan Macatuno

The warship’s visit to the Philippines is part of its two-month tour around the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, according to Commander Jonathan Zata, director of the Philippine Navy’s (PN) public affairs office.

About 850 visiting Japanese navy officers and crew belong to the JMSDF, said Commodore Antonio Palces, commander of PN’s Sealift Amphibious Force.

President Rodrigo Duterte is also expected to visit the warship in the afternoon.

Rear Adm. Tatsuya Fukuda, Japanese flotilla commander, said they are “honored” to welcome Duterte to their ship.

The visit aims to continue enhancing the already relationship between the PN and JMSDF, said Palces.   /muf