By Ma. Teresa Montemayor | Philippine News Agency
Japan will provide the Philippine Navy with a coastal radar system and the Philippine Air Force with surveillance drones under a JPY4.3-billion (about P1.72 billion) security grant signed by the two countries Monday.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Maria Theresa Lazaro and Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kitagawa Katsuro signed and exchanged notes in Manila for the fiscal year 2026 project under Japan’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) program.
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the coastal radar system, classified as defense equipment, marks the first transfer of such equipment under the OSA program.
The radar system and unmanned aerial vehicles are expected to strengthen the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ capability to monitor the country’s waters and surrounding sea lanes.
The ministry cited the Philippines’ strategic location near key maritime routes, including the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait, as well as its role in regional security.
It also described the Philippines as a “Comprehensive Strategic Partner” as Japan pursues its updated “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” policy.
The project is expected to deepen bilateral security cooperation, enhance the security of sea lanes vital to Japan and contribute to regional peace and stability, the ministry said.
The OSA program provides grants for equipment, supplies and infrastructure to the armed forces and other relevant organizations of recipient countries to strengthen their security and deterrence capabilities.
