Palace Says Russian Navy Vessel’s Goodwill Visit to Contribute to Strengthening Friendship with Philippine Navy

The Palace sees the goodwill visit of the Russian navy vessel to the Philippines will contribute to the strengthening of friendship with the Philippine Navy.

“It is also an indication that our maritime cooperation can further be enhanced to enable diplomacy and camaraderie,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a press briefing on Thursday.

No less than President Rodrigo Duterte visited on Friday, January 6, the Russian large anti-submarine ship, which is anchored in the country this week for a goodwill visit.

The Chief Executive arrived at Pier 15, Port Area in Manila at 12:58 p.m. and was accorded foyer honors by the Russian Navy. The President then boarded the Admiral Tributs for a tour. Among the officials who accompanied President Duterte were Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr., Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenza, Bases Conversion and Development Authority President and CEO Vivencio Dizon and Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.

President Duterte first went to the Torpedo Area then proceeded to the bow of the ship. He also went to the Ward Room for the signing of the guest book.

Before leaving, the Chief Executive viewed the 1 Ka-27 helicopter located at the helicopter deck. The 162-meter long large anti-submarine ship, which is under the Pacific Fleet of the Russian Navy, arrived at the Port of Manila on January 3. The Palace sees the goodwill visit to contribute to the strengthening of friendship with the Philippine Navy.

“It is also an indication that our maritime cooperation can further be enhanced to enable diplomacy and camaraderie,” Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a press briefing on Thursday. (PIA/PND)