Philippines signs $400m deal with Japan to purchase 5 coast guard patrol ships amid South China Sea tensions.

The Philippines has signed a $400m deal with Japan to purchase five coast guard patrol ships, as tensions rise over China's presence in the South China Sea. Japan will lend the Philippines $413m to buy the 97-meter Multi-Role Response Vessels and fund related facilities. The move aims to bolster the Philippine Coast Guard's maritime capabilities, particularly in tackling transnational crimes.