Story perspectives

Japan-Philippines Transfer Six Destroyers, Patrol Planes; China Condemns

5/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Japan and the Philippines created a working group on May 5, 2026 to accelerate transfer of up to six destroyers and TC-90 patrol aircraft.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. signed the agreement in Makati City after Japan’s April 21 policy revision lifted its ban on lethal weapons exports.
China condemned the policy as reckless militarism, while the United States and Australia praised Japan’s role in regional security exercises.

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Story summary

Japan and the Philippines created a working group on May 5, 2026 to accelerate transfer of up to six destroyers and TC-90 patrol aircraft.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. signed the agreement in Makati City after Japan’s April 21 policy revision lifted its ban on lethal weapons exports.
China condemned the policy as reckless militarism, while the United States and Australia praised Japan’s role in regional security exercises.