(attachment 5) Japan-Philippines Defense Ministerial Meeting (Summary)

October 24, 2017
Ministry of Defense
(Provisional Translation)

On October 23rd, 2017, Defense Minister Onodera, who was visiting the Philippines to attend the 4th ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), held a meeting with Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana. The summary of the meeting is as follows:

1. Opening Remarks

(1) In the beginning, Minister Onodera pointed out that Japan and the Philippines were strategic partners who share common principles and goals, welcomed the advancement of defense cooperation between the two countiries and showed willingness to further promote cooperation among defense authorities.
(2) In addition, Minister Onodera mentioned to Secretary Lorenzana regarding TC-90 transfer that it will be changed from lease to grant. This will be the first case of such a transfer under a provision approved by the Diet this year, which enables the transfer of equipments that Japan Self-Defense Forces no longer uses.
(3) Secretary Lorenzana expressed his appericiation for the offer. He also congratulated the victory in the snap election and asked to convey his congratulations to Prime Minister Abe.

2. Japan-Philippines Defense Cooperation and Exchanges

(1) Minister Onodera stated that Japan and the Philippines have strong ties and that he would like to further promote cooperation with the Philippines regarding the East and South China Sea including conducting joint trainings, for peace and stability in the region, and Secretary Lorenzana agreed with it.
(2) Secretary Lorenzana expressed his appreciation for the port call by JS "Izumo" to the Philippines in June. He also mentioned that the Philippines would consider sending a vessel to Japan to realize mutual visit of vessels.
(3) In addition, Minister Onodera commended the trilateral maritime patrol by the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia in the Sulu Sea and Celebes Sea. Secretary Lorenzana stated that the Philippines would continue the patrol.