Japan Ground Forces chief pays courtesy call on AFP's Madrigal

The chief of staff of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF), General Koji Yamazaki, paid a courtesy call on his counterpart Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief of staff General Benjamin Madrigal Jr. at Camp Aguinaldo on Monday.

The military engagements of the two countries, including service exchanges and troop partnerships under the Defense Cooperation Agreement, were discussed during the visit.

Madrigal also thanked Japan for the military equipment and spare parts it donated to the Philippines.

"The visit of the JGSDF Chief of Staff and the Defense Cooperation Agreement between AFP and JSDF encouraged more high-level or mid-level exchange visits in the future," said AFP Public Affairs chief Colonel Noel Detoyato .

General Yamazaki will stay in the country until March 6.

He is also set to meet with the Commanding General of the Philippine Army Lieutenant General Macairog Alberto, and Department of National Defense Undersecretary of Defense Policy Ricardo David Jr. — Dona Magsino/DVM, GMA News