Manila, May 1 -- The commander of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense (JMSDF)'s Minesweeping Division 3 paid a courtesy visit to the Philippine Navy (PN), highlighting the growing military ties between the two countries.

Naval Air Wing Deputy Commander Capt. Emerson David, representing Philippine Fleet chief Rear Adm. Joe Anthony Orbe, welcomed JMSDF Minesweeping Division 3 commander Capt. Amano Shinsuke and his delegation at the Navy headquarters, Naval Station Jose Andrada, Roxas Boulevard, Manila on April 29, the PN said in a news release Thursday.

Minesweeping refers to the removal or disarming of explosive naval mines in the water using specialized vessels called minesweepers.

The visit aligns with the goodwill visit of JMSDF vessels ...