SUBIC BAY, Zambales (DWDD) – A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force warship docked in Subic Bay in Zambales for a routine port call until April 29.
The Japanese destroyer Ise (DDH 182) is on a “navigational training” mission and this is the second time in three weeks that Japanese naval vessels visited the country, the first one was during the conduct of international disaster relief activity following the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda in 2013
According to Ise Captain Masaki Takada, the visit will help strengthen ties with the Philippines and will also serve as the crew’s rest and replenishment of the vessel supplies.
The Japanese destroyer can carry 11 helicopters and is equipped with surface-to-air missile, antisubmarine rocket and torpedo systems.
Some analyst believes that the increased presence of Japanese military might is to deter the China’s plans and actions of further aggravating the tension in the Spith China Sea, after they have already activated light houses in their illegally reclaimed territories and the deployment of last February of surface to air missile launchers in Woody Island.
Panatag shoal is one of the richest fishing grounds of Filipino fishermen for decades and the increased Chinese activity and harassment has immensely affected their livelihood.
China has already built man-made islands in at least seven reefs namely the Panganiban (Mischief), Mabini (Johnson South), Gavin (Gaven), Calderon (Cuarteron), Hughes (Kennan), Malvar (Eldad) and Kagitingan (Fiery Cross) Reefs, that are clearly within Philippine territory and exclusive economic zone.
Aside from the Philippines, Vietnam, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan also have claims over the Spratlys..
Calls has been made to launch a joint naval and air patrols by nations affected by China’s illegal activities, to protect all nations Freedom of Navigation and Flight since one-third of the world’s oil and other trade passes.
Aside from this, the whole world awaits the decision of the United Nations International Tribunal next month on the case filed by the Philippines against China regarding the territorial disputes in the region. AES / MCAG
http://dwdd.com.ph/2015/japanese-destroyer-ishe-ii-warship-visits-subic-bay/
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