22 February 2013 - The Philippines and Japan held today, February 22, the Second Dialogue on Maritime and Oceanic Affairs to explore various areas of cooperation in the maritime sector focusing on maritime safety and security.

The Philippine delegation was headed by Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Assistant Secretary Gilberto G.B. Asuque as Chair and DFA Special Assistant Henry Bensurto as Co-chair. The Japanese delegation was led by Mr. Kenji Kanasugi, Deputy Director-General for Southwest and Southeast Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).

The two countries exchanged views on programs and actions to promote cooperation in the maritime field, particularly in maritime security, freedom of navigation and safety at sea. They also exchanged views on regional maritime issues and shared the best practices in efforts to combat piracy, especially on the maritime law enforcement capabilities of countries near piracy-prone areas.

The Philippines welcomed Japan’s continued support in the capacity-building program of the Philippine Coast Guard. The Philippines and Japan also recognized the need to further strengthen the cooperation between their defense authorities. Both delegations shared the view that the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea (WPS/SCS) issue is a matter of great interest for the international community as it relates to regional peace and stability as a key factor for the economic progress of the coastal states.

The Philippines and Japan stressed that the WPS/SCS issue should be resolved peacefully in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS. During the Dialogue, the Philippines, through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, thanked the Government of Japan, through the Japan Fisheries Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, for facilitating the invitation to the Philippines to participate in the preparatory conference for the proposed North Pacific Fisheries Commission. END