Mactan: The National Security Council (NSC) has hailed the first-ever joint activity between the Philippine and Japanese militaries under the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) as a "strategic milestone." The ongoing exercise, named "Doshin-Bayanihan 5-25," signifies a significant step in operationalizing the RAA.

According to Philippines News Agency, the agreement was signed and ratified by the Philippines in 2024 and received approval from the Japanese Diet in June this year, coming into effect last month. The Doshin-Bayanihan 5-25 training exercise, which focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), involves units from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The exercise is taking place at the Benito N. Ebuen Air Base in Mactan, Cebu, from October 7 to 11.

The name "Doshin" translates to "same mind" in Japanese, while "Bayanihan" means "mutual support" in Filipino, reflecting the spirit of collaboration between the two nations. National Security Adviser Eduardo A±o emphasized that the activity demonstrates the growing security partnership between the Philippines and Japan, based on shared values and mutual respect.

A±o also expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for its humanitarian support to communities impacted by the recent magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu, which coincided with the joint training exercise. He highlighted that this dual effort showcases how the RAA can provide immediate benefits to the Filipino people, especially in crisis situations.

The exercise involves around 143 PAF personnel and 30 JASDF personnel, as stated by PAF spokesperson Col. Ma. Christina Basco. Both air forces are utilizing C-130 aircraft to simulate real-world HADR scenarios. Basco added that the training activities aim to enhance airlift, mobility, and medical operations, including night vision goggle flights for PAF observation.