Japanese destroyer flotilla now in Subic Bay for 3-day goodwill visit

From the Philippine News Agency (Jan 5): Japanese destroyer flotilla now in Subic Bay for 3-day goodwill visit
While two Russian naval vessels are now docked at Pier 15, Manila South Harbor for a six-day goodwill visit, two ships of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Escort Division 4 have arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales for a three-day port visit which started Wednesday.

Capt. Lued Lincuna, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson, said the ships are JS Inazuma (DDG-105) and JS Suzutsuki (DD-117).

These naval vessels are under the operational control of JMSDF Escort Division 4 headed by Capt. Atsushi Minami.

"The JMSDF Escort Division 4 will be staying in the country to replenish supplies, conduct maintenance work and crew rest prior going back to Japan from conducting Counter Piracy Operations at the Gulf of Aden," Lincuna said.

Minami is expected to render a courtesy call to the head of the Naval Education and Training Command in San Antonio, Zambales, he added.

"The visiting Navy vessels will also hold a passing exercise with the PN off the waters of Corregidor Island on Jan. 6 prior departure from Subic Bay," Lincuna said.

The visit is expected to enhance the already strong relationship between the PN and JMSDF.

Moreover, the visit will provide the PN officers and enlisted personnel a chance to interact with the Japanese counterparts to promote camaraderie and naval diplomacy, the PN spokesperson added.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=952840