Japanese warship JS Noshiro makes historic port visit in Subic

Subic, Zambales – As part of Japan’s commitment to deepening military and defense ties with the Philippines, one of its modern multi-role frigates, JS Noshiro, made a historic port call at the Navy Operating Base Subic (NOBS) in Zambales on Wednesday, March 26.

Before arriving in the Philippines, the warship conducted frigate training exercises in the Pacific with Australian counterparts. The visit aims to boost cooperation between the Philippine Navy and Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force in upholding peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

“The Philippines is an important partner in realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific. Recently, the relations between the Philippines and Japan have been strengthened,” said Commander Hori Tetsunobu of the JS Noshiro (FFM-3).

For the Philippines, the Japanese warship’s visit is an opportunity for capacity building and improved interoperability among like-minded partners.

“It offers an opportunity for the professional exchange and continued development of stronger defense relationships between the two nations,” said Commander Salvador Bunagan, commanding officer of NOBS.

JS Noshiro is a Mogami-class frigate equipped for missions ranging from surveillance to mine-sweeping operations. It also possesses anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, along with advanced electronic warfare and sensor suites.

The warship is in the country for three days before returning to Japan.