The Philippine Navy (PN) and the government of the United Kingdom (UK) have discussed maritime cooperation with a focus in hydrography, which is seen as a groundwork for future collaboration between the two countries.
Royal Navy Rear Admiral Angus Essenhigh, UK's national hydrographer, met with PN vice commander Rear Adm. Caesar Bernard Valencia during his courtesy visit at the PN headquarters in Manila on Monday, Nov. 20.
During their meeting, Essenhigh and Valencia talked about the possibility of establishing hydrographic charting as a niche capability for the PN through strategic investment and training initiatives.
Hydrography refers to a branch of science that measures and describes the physical features of the navigable portion of the Earth's surface and adjoining coastal areas.
Essenhigh underscored the mutual benefits of fostering cooperation in hydrography as he said it also serves as a testament to both countries' shared vision of ensuring the safety and security of maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific region.
"The discussions held during the visit are expected to lay the groundwork for future collaborations, reinforcing the commitment to advancing maritime capabilities," PN spokesperson Capt. Benjo Negranza said.
The cooperation on hydrography stemmed from the visit of UK Defense Minister Annabel Goldie to the PN headquarters last year where she reiterated UK’s intent to further strengthen defense and maritime cooperation with the PN.