Japan Boosts Philippine Naval Capabilities with $10.6M Security Aid

The funding comes as tensions escalate between the Philippines and China over maritime confrontations in the South China Sea.

Japan has granted the Philippines 1.6 billion yen (US$10.6 million) to enhance its naval capabilities through a regional security assistance program.
The aid package includes rigid-hulled inflatable boats, coastal radar systems, and automatic identification systems to strengthen maritime security.
The funding announcement follows recent confrontations between Philippine and Chinese vessels near the disputed Scarborough and Sabina Shoals.
The Philippines filed its 60th diplomatic protest this year against China, citing harassment and aggressive actions by Chinese coastguard and navy ships.
China continues to assert expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea, rejecting a 2016 international ruling that these claims lack legal basis.