The Ambassador of Japan in the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko signed the Exchange of Notes (E/N) with Department of Foreign Affairs, (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo to formalize a grant project for the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) yesterday, 08 August 2023.

Under Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA), the 1.1 billion yen (approximately ₱432 million) grant aid seeks to procure a state-of-the-art Satellite Data Communication System for the PCG.

The Embassy of Japan in the Philippines said this is expected to improve the PCG's Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and maritime law enforcement capabilities.

The Embassy added this will contribute to the economic and social development of the Philippines, strengthen cooperation in the Sulu-Celebes Sea and its surrounding areas, as well as realize the "Free and Open Indo-Pacific."

Department of Transportation (DOTr) Assistant Secretary for Planning and Development Leonel Cray De Velez and PCG Deputy Commandant for Operations, CG Vice Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr, witnessed the signing ceremony.