Philippines, US hold naval exercises in La Union

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine and United States Navies started their weeklong naval exercises in La Union yesterday. 

Lt. Gen. Emmanuel Salamat, Northern Luzon Command (Nolcom) commander; Rear Admiral Murray Joe Tynch III, commander of the Logistics Group Western Pacific Task Force 73, Singapore coordinator; and Commodore Nichols Driz, Naval Forces Northern Luzon chief, attended the opening ceremony. 

Capt. Masahiro Goto of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force also attended the event at Pier 1 in Poro Point. 

“This training provides... an exceptional opportunity for both Philippine and US Navies to engage in a broader range of maritime operations and unique scenarios in our maritime areas,” Salamat said. 

Personnel of the Naval Forces Northern Luzon, Philippine Navy and US Navy’s 7th Fleet will participate in the exercises dubbed “Sama-Sama.”

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force will serve as an observer.

The exercises will be held at the Nolcom headquarters in La Union, Naval Station Ernesto Ogbinar in San Fernando City as well as in the waters off Zambales and Cavite.

“In this way, we could explore more cooperation, enhance our interoperability and provide effective mechanisms for collaboration and partnership of our Navies in the spirit of our mutual treaty engagement,” Salamat said.  

He said Nolcom naval forces would continue to participate in international defense and security engagements to ensure operational readiness and interoperability to maintain peace, security and stability in the region. – Pia Lee-Brago, Ding Cervantes