The Philippine Army (PA) and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) are looking to deepen cooperation in humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR) and external security operations (ESO).

PA vice commander Maj. Gen. Efren Morados and JGSDF vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Tokunaga Katsuhiko affirmed the strong bilateral ties between the two ground forces during the Japanese military official’s visit to Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, following the opening ceremony of Exercise “Balikatan” last April 20, Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said in a statement Wednesday.

“The PA and JGSDF are sustaining their strong defense cooperation, particularly in HADR and ESO through the conduct of regular training exercises,” he added.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the regional security environment and shared their understanding of the current status and future direction of Japan–Philippines defense cooperation and exchanges.

“Following the call, Lt. Gen. Tokunaga witnessed a capability demonstration of the 525th Combat Engineer Battalion at the Forerunner Training Area in Fort Bonifacio,” Dema-ala said. (PNA)