Japanese training squadron in 4-day goodwill visit to RP

The training squadron of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, consisting of three vessels, JDS YUGUMO (DD 121), JDS HARUYUKI (DD 128) and JDS HAMASHIO (SS 578: submarine) will be in Manila on a goodwill visit on April 17-20.

The ships will berth at Pier 15, South Harbor, City of Manila tomorrow at 9 a.m. and will depart for Japan on Friday at 9 a.m.

The ships, with a complement of about 530 officers and crew members on board, including 65 newly commissioned officers, are under the command of Capt Akitomo Sahara.

The program during the ships’ visit will include courtesy calls on ranking Philippine officials, wreathlaying at the Rizal Monument, and friendly sports activities with Philippine counterparts.

The ships will be open to the public on Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.