Alava Pier, Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Zambales
September 1, 2018

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte inspected one of the three ships of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Escort Flotilla Four, the JS Kaga (DDH-184), docked at the Alava Pier in Subic Freeport Zone, Zambales.

The JS Kaga is Japan’s largest military ship. It is a helicopter-carrying naval vessel built for defensive and disaster-relief operations. The other two ships making a port call include the Akizuki-class destroyer JS Suzutsuki (DD-117) and the Murasame-class destroyer JS Inazuma (DD-105).

Upon arrival, the President was accorded with military honors. He then proceeded to a courtesy call by Japanese Parliamentary Vice Minister of Defense Keitaro Ohno, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda, and Escort Flotilla Four Commander Rear Admiral (RAdm) Tatsuya Fukuda.

Thereafter, President Duterte was ushered to a shipboard tour and inspection of the JS Kaga’s facilities including its medical room, memorial history room, and flight deck.

The Japanese fleet is in the country for a five-day goodwill visit, aiming to promote peace and stability in the region.

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