The Philippine Marine Corps officially welcomed Warrant Officer Kosuke Watahiki, Sergeant Major of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), accompanied by his Operations NCOIC Warrant Officer Toshihiro Nishiyama, during their official visit to Headquarters Philippine Marine Corps on July 21, 2026. As part of this visit, the delegations conducted the PMC’s – JGSDF’s Senior Enlisted Leaders Engagement. Discussions centered on Professional Military Education and the Continuum of Enlisted Personnel Development across both services, alongside efforts to foster mutual understanding, exchange best practices, and advance future defense cooperation. Beyond a courtesy call, this engagement reinforces the deepening trust and shared commitment between the PMC and JGSDF. It stands as a testament to our enduring partnership, and our shared resolve to strengthen our enlisted corps and promote regional stability through meaningful collaboration.