The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan PCG, spearheaded the introductory call with Mr. Naobumi Yokota, the newly installed Minister for Economic Affairs at the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, at the National Headquarters, Port Area, Manila on July 17, 2025.

During the meeting, Admiral Gavan emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between the PCG and the Government of Japan─an effort also reaffirmed by President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr.

He expressed the PCG’s sincere appreciation for Japan’s vital contributions to the organization’s capability development, particularly in the areas of maritime safety, law enforcement, and infrastructure enhancement.

For his part, Minister Yokota conveyed his appreciation for the PCG’s warm hospitality and reiterated the Government of Japan’s commitment to further strengthening its cooperation with the PCG.

The meeting also served as a platform to discuss ongoing initiatives and future collaborative projects aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation and promoting regional maritime security.