Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met on Tuesday to formalize a statement promoting defense equipment and technology cooperation. The partnership, facilitated by Japan’s revised Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, aims to bolster regional security. Japan is moving forward with plans to transfer Abukuma-class destroyers and TC-90 aircraft to the Philippines, with both nations establishing a working group to manage policy and operational requirements. Minister Koizumi, who is visiting to observe the Balikatan exercises, emphasized that these strengthened ties contribute to global peace. Secretary Teodoro condemned China’s recent criticism of the alliance, labeling it a dishonest attempt to distract from regional tensions while expressing gratitude for Japan’s ongoing defense and humanitarian support.