Ranking US naval official commits support to PH Navy modernization

From the Philippine News Agency (Feb 23, 2024): Ranking US naval official commits support to PH Navy modernization (By Priam Nepomuceno)

ALLIES. US Navy International Program Office (NIPO) head Rear Adm. Anthony Rossi (left) receives a command plaque from Commodore Salvador Lavapie Jr., deputy commander of the Philippine Navy's (PN) Naval Education, Training, and Doctrine Command, during his visit to the PN on Thursday (Feb. 22, 2024). The two officials discussed current and future modernization projects and bilateral training initiatives between the PN and the US Navy. (Photo courtesy of the Philippine Navy)

MANILA – The head of the United States Navy International Program Office (NIPO) has expressed commitment to helping the Philippine Navy (PN) with its ongoing modernization program.

Rear Adm. Anthony Rossi made this pledge during his visit to the PN headquarters at the Naval Station Jose Andrada along Roxas Boulevard, Manila on Thursday.

"Naval Education, Training, and Doctrine Command deputy commander, Commodore Salvador Lavapie Jr., received the visiting US Navy official on behalf of the Flag Officer In Command (Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr.). Discussed during the courtesy call were current and future modernization projects and bilateral training initiatives between the two naval forces," Navy spokesperson Commander John Percie Alcos said in a statement Thursday night.

Lavapie thanked Rossi for the US Navy's continued support to the PN, saying he sees stronger relations between the Philippines and the US.

Rossi, meanwhile, emphasized the significance of fostering strong relationships with allies like the Philippines, highlighting the mutual benefits that stem from collaboration and solidarity among partner nations.

Established in 1989, the NIPO aims to advance global maritime alliances and partnerships by championing exportability and the transfer of capabilities in support of strategic security interests.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1219402