Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Yasushi Kaneko and Japan Coast Guard (JCG) Commandant, Admiral Koichi Miyazawa visited the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) headquarters in Manila.

Upon his arrival on Tuesday, Kaneko was welcomed by the PCG officials led by its Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan and the representatives from Japan Embassy, led by Japan Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya.

During his courtesy visit, Kaneko reaffirmed Japan’s resolve to work closely with the PCG in strengthening maritime cooperation to uphold safe and stable seas.

He emphasized Japan’s commitment to its partnership with the Philippines in addressing emerging maritime issues and promoting regional stability.

Gavan recognized Japan’s continuing support for the development of Coast Guard capabilities through vessel acquisition and capacity-building.

He also emphasized that cooperation between the Philippines and Japan has remained steadfast through the years, anchored in their mutual interests and shared responsibilities.

“As maritime nations, Japan and the Philippines have always understood something in our bones: that safe and stable seas are not a convenience. They are the condition on which our people, our economies, and our region’s peace all depend,” he said.

Gavan also expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, and the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) for their sustained technical cooperation with the PCG through specialized training conducted by the JCG Mobile Cooperation Team.

“As the maritime challenges facing this region continue to evolve, that trust is worth more than any single vessel or program. It is what allows two nations to keep building together, year after year, even as circumstances change,” he said. Robina Asido/PHS