The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's largest vessel, the Izumo, has taken part in a joint exercise with US, Australian and Philippine naval vessels in the South China Sea.

The Izumo, which can carry helicopters, made a port call in the Philippine capital Manila for the first time. Naval commanders from the United States, Australia and the Philippines were invited to a Sunday ceremony onboard the vessel.

The Maritime Self-Defense Force says six large vessels from the four countries conducted drills last Thursday in the South China Sea off the coast of the northern Philippine province of Zambales.

The drills included ship-to-ship replenishment operations.

The joint exercise took place at a time when China is ramping up its maritime activities in the South China Sea.

Tensions have been running high between China and the Philippines since earlier this month when a Chinese coast guard vessel water-cannoned Philippine military transport and patrol ships.

Vice Admiral Saito Akira, commander-in-chief of Japan's Self-Defense Fleet, was in the Philippines to mark the Izumo's port call.

Saito noted that China is engaged in very high-handed activities in the South China Sea as well as near Japan.

He stressed that the joint drills will contribute to peace and stability in the region.

Saito reportedly exchanged opinions on preparations for future drills with US and Philippine commanders.