THE Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) will conduct a joint training exercise on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) next month.

PAF Public Affairs Chief Col. Ma. Consuelo Castillo said the Doshin-Bayanihan exercise will be held October 2 to 6 at the Brigadier General Benito Ebuen Air Base in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu.

Castillo said the exercise aims to enhance interoperability and deepen cooperation in HADR between the two air forces.

On Saturday, the JASDF participated in the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea.

Joining the Philippines and Japan in the exercise were New Zealand, the United States and Australia.

In the Doshin-Bayanihan, over 150 participants from the PAF and JASDF will have training in simulated airdrop flight and load/offload.

There will also be aeromedical evaluation exercises and subject matter expert exchanges. One C-130 cargo aircraft from each air force will be used in the exercise.

Castillo said Doshin-Bayanihan is a testament to the growing relationship between the Philippines and Japan.

"This joint training not only strengthens defense capabilities but also fosters regional cooperation in HADR efforts," Castillo said.