On 21 June 2025, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessels JS ISE and JS SUZUNAMI arrived at the Port of Manila. Following a welcome ceremony conducted by the Philippine Navy (PN), a disembarkation ceremony was held for naval officers from various countries who had participated in the Ship Rider Cooperation Program.
The deployment of JS ISE and JS SUZUNAMI is part of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2025 (IPD25), an initiative aimed at promoting regional security and cooperation. During their deployment, the JMSDF vessels are conducting joint training exercises with naval forces across the Indo-Pacific region, including those of countries that regularly operate in these waters.
These engagements serve to enhance the tactical capabilities of the JMSDF, foster mutual understanding and trust among participating navies, and deepen multilateral defense cooperation. Such initiatives reflect Japan’s continued commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and a rules-based maritime order in the Indo-Pacific region.
