US admiral affirms collaboration with PH

From the Manila Times (Feb 24, 2023): US admiral affirms collaboration with PH (By Franco Jose C. Baroña)

THE chief of Naval Operations of the United States Navy met with top Philippine military officials to highlight the importance of the US-Philippine alliance and shared commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Admiral Mike Gilday, in his meeting with the Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Andres Centino, affirmed a robust military partnership between the US and the Philippines based on the Mutual Defense Treaty. These included pursuing a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

They also discussed the upcoming Balikatan Exercises, where more Filipino and US personnel are expected to participate.

The 38th iteration of the Balikatan Exercises has been scheduled in April.

Gilday also paid a courtesy call to the Philippine Navy (PN) Chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. on Wednesday.

The admiral emphasized the need for collaboration among allies, which is strengthened through joint and combined exercises.

He underscored the importance of providing forces to create opportunities to implement joint operations and maritime exercises.

Adaci pledged the PN's sustained collaboration with its US counterpart for the betterment of both navies.

He also thanked the US for accommodating PN students in various naval schools.

https://www.manilatimes.net/2023/02/24/news/national/us-admiral-affirms-collaboration-with-ph/1880051