Navy Mulling Joint Exercise With Japan

Japanese and Philippine officials are in talks regarding potential joint naval drills, reports ABS-CBN News (Philippines).

Both nations are looking to take their bilateral relations "to the next level," a Philippine naval spokesman said on Tuesday.

The announcement came after the Japanese destroyer Ikazuchi arrived in Manila for a three-day goodwill visit.

The two countries seek to enhance defense ties and strengthen regional security, military officials said.

Manila and Tokyo each have maritime disputes with China.

Japan and the Philippines are committed to free navigation in the South China Sea on the basis of international law, the spokesman said.