PH, Japan air forces hold disaster response drills in Cebu

DISASTER RESPONSE DRILLS. A JASDF’s C130 aircraft arrives at Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu for “Doshin-Bayanihan 2024” on Oct. 2, 2024, for the “Doshin-Bayanihan 2024” exercises of the Philippine Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The PAF on Friday (Oct. 4) said the training will encompass various HADR operations, including simulated airdrop flight training, load/offload operations, aeromedical evacuation exercises, and subject matter expert exchanges. (Photo courtesy of PAF)

MANILA — The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) kicked off the “Doshin-Bayanihan 2024” exercises focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) in Cebu, in line with the two nations’ joint efforts to enhance disaster response capabilities.

In a statement Friday, PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the bilateral training exercise formally opened at the Brig. Gen. Benito N. Ebuen Air Base, Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu on Thursday and will run until Sunday.

“The training will encompass various HADR operations, including simulated airdrop flight training, load/offload operations, aeromedical evacuation exercises, and subject matter expert exchanges,” she added.

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Meanwhile, exercise director Col. Reynaldo Jose Montoya encouraged PAF and JASDF participants to seize this opportunity to exchange valuable knowledge, skills, and cultural insights.

He also emphasized that these exchanges will significantly enhance the capabilities and camaraderie between both air forces.

Before the ceremony, the JASDF delegation, led by Lt. Col. Shotaro Arai of the 1st Tactical Airlift Wing rendered their courtesy call to Air Mobility Command head Maj. Gen. Joannis Leonardi Dimaano.

This joint training initiative aims to strengthen the operational capabilities of the PAF and JASDF Units in HADR while fostering deeper cooperation and reinforcing the strong relationship between the Philippines and Japan. (PNA)

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