The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Japan is extending at least 1.6 billion Japanese yen (approximately P611 million) in defense equipment to the Philippine Navy and Philippine Air Force under its Official Security Assistance (OSA) program for fiscal year 2024.
The Philippines is one of four countries selected as beneficiaries of Japan’s OSA this year. This marks the second OSA grant received by Manila, following the initial 600 million Japanese yen (around P235 million) provided in 2023 for coastal radars.
The signing and exchange of diplomatic notes for the new assistance took place on Thursday at the Department of Foreign Affairs, led by Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, with Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in attendance.
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the latest grant will supply the Philippine Navy with rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs), coastal radar systems, and other equipment to enhance maritime domain awareness (MDA) capabilities.
The Philippine Air Force will receive equipment related to air surveillance radar systems to bolster its monitoring and surveillance capabilities.
“We sincerely hope that the provision of these items will be of great use for our friends facing strategic challenges. All of these elements are aimed at safeguarding Philippine sovereignty and securing national territory through improving its MDA capabilities and monitoring and surveillance capabilities,” Ambassador Endo said.
“As we strengthen our support towards the Philippines, we also hope to contribute to the security and stability of the region — ultimately driving towards a free and open Indo-Pacific,” he added.
Foreign Affairs Secretary Manalo emphasized the significance of the initiative, describing it as a testament to the deepening partnership between the Philippines and Japan in advancing regional peace and stability.
Launched in 2023, Japan’s OSA program designates the Philippines as one of its first recipients, bringing the total assistance provided to the country to JPY2.2 billion.