By Erma Edera
US Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Karl Schultz arrived in Manila on Monday as part of his three-day visit to the country to bolster the US-Philippines relations.
US Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Karl Schultz (Wikipedia)
The US Coast Guard chief met PCG Commandant Adm. Elson Hermogino and Deputy Commandant Vice Adm. Joel Garcia to discuss how US can help the Philippines in the aspect of human resource development like training, subject matter expert exchange on law enforcement, anti-drug operations, and anti-terrorists activities.
During his visit, Schultz also vowed support for PCG.
"Our specialized capabilities and expansive international relationships enable us to build partner-nation capacity and model rules-based values," Schultz said.
Schultz also went to Puerto Princesa, Palawan to visit the crew of US Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Stratton last Saturday.
He also joined the maritime drill dubbed as "Sama Sama" along with the Philippine and Japanese navies.
Schultz also served as the guest of honor during the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Leyte landings of former President Sergio Osmeña and US Gen. Douglas MacArthur in Palo town.
"The ceremony offered not only an important moment of remembrance with the people of the Philippines, but it is also an opportunity to reflect on the enduring role of the U.S. Coast Guard in the Pacific," he said.