Philippine Army Commanding General Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete received Lt. Gen. Ueno Kazushi, chief of staff of the Ground Component Command of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, during a courtesy call at Army headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, on Monday, June 29.
During the meeting, Ueno thanked the Philippine Army for its continued support and cooperation in joint military exercises between the two forces.
The two officials also discussed possible training opportunities for Japan’s Ground Component Command in the Philippines, as both sides continue to strengthen defense cooperation and interoperability.
Before the courtesy call, Ueno led a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Libingan ng mga Bayani to honor fallen soldiers.
The visit comes after the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force expanded its participation in Philippine-led military activities, shifting from observer status to active participation in the 2026 iterations of Exercise Balikatan and Exercise Salaknib.
The Philippine Army said the engagement reflects its commitment to international cooperation and a stronger defense posture in the Indo-Pacific region.