THE Philippines should treat foreign defense commitments as temporary support rather than a substitute for military modernization, analysts said, as Japan and other security partners expand defense cooperation with Manila. Teodoro, Jr. and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi agreed on Oct. 28 to pursue the transfer of an Abukuma-class destroyer to the Philippine Navy after its expected decommissioning and discuss arrangements for the transfer of a TC-90 aircraft by the end of Japan’s fiscal year 2027. “The transfer of the Abukuma-class destroyer and a TC-90 aircraft to the Philippines marks a significant leap in trust and interoperability between Manila and Tokyo,” Mr. Cabalza said. He described the proposed transfers as a form of burden-sharing among security partners that could help boost the Philippines’ maritime defense capabilities. Beyond equipment donations and diplomatic commitments, Mr. Juliano said the government should focus on technology transfers, military training and professional education.