Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said Tuesday the Philippines can now access quality military equipment from Japan following the release of its “Review of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology” and its “Implementation Guidelines,” which eliminated restrictions on military equipment transfers.

“(This) will allow the Philippines to access defense articles of the highest quality and supportability, which will not only enable us to strengthen domestic resilience but also to contribute to regional stability through deterrence in a meaningful way,” Teodoro said in a statement.

He said this will allow the Philippines to secure its individual and collective rights and entitlements under international law through principled advocacy buttressed by deterrence.

“We are also thankful for the OSA (Official Security Assistance) received and the assistance rendered by Japan when we are hit by natural calamities. We will continue the fruitful and impactful partnership and will be creative in proactively ensuring our mutual security goals in the coming period,” Teodoro said.

He said he is looking forward to the upcoming visit of Japan Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, where they will discuss anchoring mechanisms for a strong and responsive alliance.

Earlier reports said the Japanese government has officially revised the “Review of the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology” and its “Implementation Guidelines” to allow the export of weapons, including those with lethal capabilities. The changes have been approved by the Cabinet and the National Security Council.

The revisions scrapped rules that limit Japan’s defense equipment exports to five noncombat categories – rescue, transport, warning, surveillance, and minesweeping.

Instead, defense equipment will be divided into “weapons” and “non-weapons” categories, based on whether they have lethal capability.

While the revisions in principle prohibit the export of arms to countries where conflict is taking place, they do allow for exceptions “in special circumstances” that take into consideration Japan’s security needs. (PNA)