Army hosts Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force students for study tour

The Philippine Army on Thursday said it welcomed a 32-member delegation from the Command and General Staff College of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) for a study tour at its headquarters in Taguig City.

Army Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Ronald Jess Alcudia led the Philippine Army in hosting the visiting students from the JGSDF’s Training Evaluation Research and Development Command on 29 October.

Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the visit was designed to enhance the participants’ understanding of the Philippine Army’s mission, functions, and ongoing operations.

“The study tour aims to strengthen cooperation and foster mutual understanding between the Philippine Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force,” Dema-ala said.

The engagement also provided opportunities for professional exchange, cultural immersion, and the development of strategic empathy, he added.

Participants were given the chance to interact with their Philippine Army counterparts and experience Filipino hospitality and heritage firsthand.

“The visit underscores the strong defense relations between the Philippines and Japan, highlighting both nations’ shared commitment to regional stability, cooperation, and capacity-building initiatives,” Dema-ala said.