By Priam Nepomuceno/PNA
MANILA – The JS Ikazuchi (DD-107), a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) destroyer with two SH-60K patrol helicopters, docked off Manila’s South Harbor on Tuesday morning for a three-day goodwill visit.
Capt. Jonathan Zata, Philippine Navy (PN) spokesperson, said the JMSDF contingent is headed by Capt. Ryoko Azuma, Escort Division One commander.
In her speech, Azuma stated that the purpose of their visit is to deepen the partnership with the PN through various opportunities and interaction.
“I believe that this visit will make a great contribution to the further strong relations between our two countries,” she added.
This is the first visit of the JMSDF this year and the eighth since 2016. It is also the first time for JS Ikazuchi to visit the Philippines.
