Japanese destroyer arrives in Manila for 2-day goodwill visit

Philippine Navy delegates are seen welcoming the JS Amagiri on Friday, February 2, 2018. The Japanese vessel is on a 2-day goodwill visit in the country. /Philippine Navy/

(Eagle News)– A Japanese vessel docked in Manila on Friday for a goodwill visit.

The JS Amagiri (DD-154),  an Asagiri-class (general type) destroyer, was met by BRP Rajah Humabon (Ps 11) at Corregidor Island and escorted to the anchorage area.

The vessel–which carried around 200 crew members—arrived at Pier 15 with an SH-60J helicopter.

It was welcomed by delegates of the Philippine Navy led by Flag Officer in Command Capt. Ricardo Martin.

The vessel will be in Manila until Sunday, February 4.

“Similar to their previous visits, the Japanese navy will engage in a series of confidence-building activities with their (Philippine Navy) counterparts such as goodwill games followed by a boodle fight and shipboard tour on JS Amagiri,” the Philippine Navy said in a statement.

It added a “send-off ceremony with customary Passing Exercise (PASSEX) will cap off their port visit on February 4.”

This is the first Japanese military ship to visit the Philippines this year.