Taguig city: The Philippine Army (PA) and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) are set to enhance their collaboration in humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), as well as in external security operations (ESO).

According to Philippines News Agency, PA vice commander Maj. Gen. Efren Morados and JGSDF vice chief of staff Lt. Gen. Tokunaga Katsuhiko confirmed the robust bilateral relations between the two military forces during Lt. Gen. Tokunaga's visit to Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. This visit followed the opening ceremony of Exercise "Balikatan" on April 20, as shared by Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala in a statement.

The ongoing defense cooperation between the PA and JGSDF, particularly in HADR and ESO, is being maintained through regular training exercises. The two military leaders also discussed the regional security landscape and exchanged insights on the current status and future direction of defense cooperation and exchanges between Japan and the Philippines.

Lt. Gen. Tokunaga also had the opportunity to observe a capability demonstration by the 525th Combat Engineer Battalion at the Forerunner Training Area in Fort Bonifacio, highlighting the operational capabilities of the PA.