Philippines, Japan Launch Joint Disaster Relief Exercise

Photo courtesy of PhilStar

The Philippines and Japan initiated their first joint exercise under the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) on October 8, focusing on humanitarian aid for Cebu residents affected by a magnitude 6.9 earthquake. This operation, a segment of the Doshin-Bayanihan 5-25 exercise, involves air force units from both nations delivering assistance from Brigadier General Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City. The exercise, ongoing until October 11, utilizes C-130 transport aircraft for airlift and mobility operations simulating real disaster scenarios.

The Japan–Philippines RAA, effective since September 11, permits mutual entry into each other’s territory for joint activities and simplifies procedures for military operations such as disaster relief. The Doshin-Bayanihan series, established in 2017, focuses on enhancing humanitarian aid and disaster response, evolving over time to encompass more sophisticated airlift and medical operations.

This event, marking the fifth Doshin-Bayanihan exercise, is the inaugural one conducted under a legal framework allowing foreign troops to operate on Philippine soil. Similar agreements exist between Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The exercise aims to boost interoperability through activities like medical operations and night vision goggle flights for observers.

Col. Ma. Christina O. Basco emphasized the significance of the term "Doshin" meaning "same mind" in Japanese, and "Bayanihan" meaning "mutual support" in Filipino, highlighting the strengthening defense partnership. Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro acknowledged the joint exercise as both a training and humanitarian aid mission, noting Japan's critical assistance in addressing the urgent needs of earthquake-affected communities.

Teodoro articulated that the RAA is instrumental in enhancing bilateral defense cooperation, ensuring interoperability, and advancing the shared commitment of both countries to regional resilience and security.

Key Takeaways

• Japan and the Philippines initiated their first joint exercise under the new RAA to aid Cebu earthquake victims.
• The Doshin-Bayanihan 5-25 exercise includes medical operations and night vision goggle flights.
• The RAA facilitates enhanced defense collaboration and regional stability efforts.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-10-08