JMSDF training squadron in PHL for 5-day goodwill visit

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 24): JMSDF training squadron in PHL for 5-day goodwill visit

A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) training squadron has arrived at the Manila South Harbor for a five-day goodwill visit that began Sunday and ends on Thursday.

The squadron, headed by Rear Adm. Hidetoshi Iwasaki, consists of three vessels -- the JS Kashima (TV-3508), JS Setoyuki (TV-3518) and JS Asagiri (DD-151).

On board are 190 newly commissioned officers and one helicopter, an SH-60J.

Capt. Lued Lincuna, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson, said the BRP Rajah Humabon (FF-11) conducted the meeting procedure for the vessels at the vicinity of Corregidor Island and escorted them to their designated berthing area.

PN delegates also rendered a customary welcome ceremony at the pier, followed by a port briefing with topics on security, safety and health.

Lincuna said this goodwill visit includes a series of engagements between PN personnel and their visiting counterparts such as ship’s tour, courtesy call to navy leadership, goodwill games and receptions for cultural exchanges.

"The said visit is another gesture of fostering goodwill, which contributes to the furtherance of friendship between the PN and JMSDF established through the years with continuing commitment to promoting naval diplomacy and camaraderie," he added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=934061