By Roy Mabasa
The aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt, embarked Carrier Air Wing 17, and the guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill arrived in Manila Wednesday for a scheduled port visit, the United States Embassy in Manila has reported.
The four-day exercise in the western Pacific involves the USS Ronald Reagan, USS Nimitz and USS Theodore Roosevelt. (AFP / MANLA BULLETIN)
During the port visit, sailors and marines will participate in cultural exchanges, community relations events, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR)-sponsored tours to enhance cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
In a statement, Rear Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 9, said they are excited to visit the Philippines.
“The Philippines has long been a part of US Navy history, and we look forward to continuing that valued relationship and partnership,” he said.
According to Capt. Carlos Sardiello, Theodore Roosevelt's commanding officer, many Theodore Roosevelt sailors and marines have strong ties to the Philippines.
"There are several Rough Riders who are from the Philippines or who have family in the country," Capt. Sardiello said. "We are excited for them to be able to share their culture with fellow shipmates and spend time with loved ones there."
According to the US embassy, the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group (TRCSG) will continue on their regularly scheduled Western Pacific deployment after departing Manila, conducting a variety of operations, including addressing shared maritime security concerns, building relationships with partner navies and enhancing interoperability and communication with partners and allies throughout the area of operations through exercises and ship visits.