NAVAL STATION JOSE ANDRADA, Manila – The Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. welcomed the United States Secretary of Defense, Sec. Lloyd Austin III in his official visit to the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales on July 31.

Sec. Austin’s visit intends to assess the industrial capabilities of companies in Subic Bay that will contribute to PH Military's modernization and their capacity to maintain ships of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

“We’ve come a long way in our relationship with the Philippines. I think it’s been fascinating to be a part of this and we are looking to a lot more going forward,” Sec. Austin said during his visit.

Vice Adm. Adaci Jr. expressed the Philippine Navy’s deep appreciation for Sec. Austin’s visit as a clear manifestation of the US' support to the Philippine Navy.    VADM Adaci affirmed the Philippine Navy's support to all endeavors and activities that  would further reinforce the longstanding defense alliance between the US and the Philippines. He also discussed with the visiting Secretary possible areas collaboration between the forces of the Philippine Navy and their  American counterparts.

Sec. Austin recently engaged in high-level discussions with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro and other officials as part of the 4th PH-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue where he reiterated the United States’ commitment to deepening ties with key allies.

The Philippine Navy remains committed to enhancing the PH-US partnership that stands as a strong pillar for security and stability in the region. 

PUBLISHED BY:    Naval Public Affairs Office (NPAO) CDR JOHN PERCIE A ALCOS PN(GSC) Director, Naval Public Affairs Office