The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has deployed a C-130H transport aircraft and 30 personnel to the Philippines for bilateral training “DOSHIN BAYANIHAN 5-25” with the Philippine Air Force at Mactan-Cebu International Airport.
This marks the first operational use of the Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which took effect on September 11, 2025. Alongside training activities, the mission included the delivery of relief supplies to communities in northern Cebu affected by the September 30 earthquake.
The operation highlights the dual role of the RAA in strengthening military cooperation and enabling rapid disaster response. Both nations aim to enhance interoperability and bolster regional disaster preparedness through continued collaboration under the RAA framework.
