Navy chief hosts Spanish defense attache, French ambassador
Vice Admiral Adeluis Bordado, Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy (PN), accorded warm reception to Col. Javier Martin Gil, the newly designated defense attaché of Spain to the Philippines, and new French Ambassador to the Philippines Michele Boccoz when they visited the PN headquarters at Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila on Wednesday, Nov. 10.
Bordado discussed the strengthening of navy's bilateral relations with Spain and France during his meeting with Gil and Boccoz.

"The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Commo. Caesar Bernard Valencia and Colonel Gil had a fruitful discussion regarding possible areas of collaboration between the two country's militaries and defense. Fostering strong bilateral ties, particularly among the armed forces of the Philippines and Spain, was also one of the discussion's high points," said Commander Benjo Negranza, PN spokesperson.
As the defense attaché of Spain to the country, Colonel Gil is responsible for the bilateral defense relations of the Philippines and Spain. He began his duties and responsibilities as defense attaché last August 1.

Meanwhile, Bordado's meeting with Boccoz served as an avenue for discussions centered on bolstering the defense and armed forces relations between the Philippines and France, and the observance of rules-based order, and international law in the freedom of navigation.
Bordado also tackled with Boccoz various collaborations and partnerships between the Philippines and French navies including port calls, naval exercises, and trainings.
During the courtesy call, Boccoz conveyed her pleasure for being at the Navy headquarters as "maritime is an area where France and the Philippines collaborate very closely."