CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) affirmed its support for stronger defense cooperation with Japan during the courtesy visit of Tsuchimoto Hideki, Commissioner of the Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) of Japan on June 19 at the AFP General Headquarters here.
General Andres Centino, the Chief of Staff AFP (CSAFP), welcomed and expressed his grateful appreciation to the Japanese official for their assistance in the AFP modernization and capability upgrade program.
“We are thankful for your help in our modernization and acquisition of new equipment and capability,” the CSAFP said.
He added that the AFP is excited to work with the Japanese government to further improve security and defense relations in view of present challenges.
Mr. Tsuchimoto reciprocated the gesture and relayed Japan’s willingness to enhance ties under its new defense and security policies.
He added that, citing the new strategic documents, they are also looking for ways to strengthen defense equipment and technology cooperation with other countries including the Philippines to contribute to peace and stability in the region.
