IN PHOTOS: Japanese vessels dock at Manila for naval exercises

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'The vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific is to aim to facilitate free and robust economic activity throughout the Indo-Pacific and to realize the prosperity in the entire region,' says Rear Admiral Natsui Takashi, JMSDF Escort Flotilla Four commander

MANILA, Philippines – Two Japanese defense vessels have arrived in Manila on Saturday, June 21, as part of the ongoing cooperation of the Philippine Navy (PN) with allied forces.

The Japanese embassy in Manila said Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels JS ISE and JS Suzunami arrived at the Port of Manila on Saturday. The Japanese vessels are part of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2025, a program aiming to promote security and cooperation in the region.

DOCKED. One of the two Japanese vessels that arrived in Manila on June 21, 2025 Photo from the Japanese Embassy in Manila

The Philippines and Japan are part of the Indo-Pacific region. ot the third time for the JMSDF to make a port call in Manila for 2025, according to Rear Admiral Natsui Takashi, commander of JMSDF’s Escort Flotilla Four.

LEADER. Rear Admiral Natsui Takashi, commander of JMSDF’s Escort Flotilla Four, leads the pack of Japanese officers who will take part in the exercises. Photo from the Japanese Embassy in Manila

Under the program, vessels will take part in joint training exercises with naval forces in the region, including nations that pass through and operate within the region’s waters. The joint engagements also aim to improve mutual understanding and trust among the navies and deepen their defense cooperation.

“The vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific is to aim to facilitate free and robust economic activity throughout the Indo-Pacific and to realize the prosperity in the entire region,” Takashi said.

IN THE PHILIPPINES. Rear Admiral Natsui Takashi, commander of JMSDF’s Escort Flotilla Four, during the Japanese vessels’ arrival at the Port of Manila. Photo by Japanese embassy in Manila

“The Indo-Pacific region, including this Manila, is at the center of the world vitality, home to more than half of the world’s population. Realizing the stable and autonomous development is crucial for the stability and prosperity in the region,” he added. – With reports from Jairo Bolledo/Rappler.com