Manila: The Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. announced that the Philippines now has the capability to purchase military weapons directly from Japan. This development comes as Tokyo relaxes its regulations on the transfer of defense equipment and technology, allowing for more direct transactions aside from conventional transfers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the announcement was made by Secretary Teodoro during a chance interview with reporters following his meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Makati City. He clarified that Japan's recent review and revision of its "Three Principles on The Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology" and its accompanying "Implementation Guidelines" now permit the export of weapons, including those with lethal capabilities. Previously, Japan was limited to selling equipment in non-combat categories such as rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and minesweeping.

Secretary Teodoro expressed his enthusiasm for the potential partnership with Japan, citing the country's high industrial and technological capabilities, which he believes offer higher value at lower costs. The two defense ministers also signed a "Statement on the Further Promotion of Defense Equipment and Technology" and its "Implementation Guidelines," paving the way for collaborative efforts in the defense sector.

The DND chief also disclosed that the Philippines is in the process of acquiring "domain awareness equipment" from Japan, either via transfer or purchase. He emphasized the significance of having a unified data system for air and sea domains, which he noted is crucial for operational security.