MANILA — The Philippines and Japan have formalized a grant agreement aimed at enhancing the Philippine military’s defense capabilities through equipment and support.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuya Endo led the signing of the Official Security Assistance (OSA) agreement, valued at ¥1.6 billion (P611 million).
This year’s aid package includes critical resources for the Philippine Navy, such as Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs), Coastal Radar Systems, and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) to bolster its maritime domain awareness.
The Philippine Air Force will also receive equipment to enhance its Air Surveillance Radar System.
The Japanese Embassy stated that the assistance would contribute to regional security and help protect vital sea lanes, benefiting both the Philippines and Japan’s security interests.
The Philippines is the only country Japan has chosen to receive such assistance for two consecutive years.
Last year, Japan provided ¥600 million for Coastal Radar Systems as part of a broader effort to improve maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Ambassador Endo emphasized that the program marks a “pivotal advancement” in the strategic partnership between the two nations, highlighting their mutual commitment to stronger security cooperation.
Secretary Manalo described the aid as a significant milestone, following the recent signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in July.
He emphasized that the assistance further strengthens the collaboration between the Philippines and Japan, fostering peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.