House Senior Deputy Speaker and Pampanga 2nd district Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was personally invited to visit United States (US) warship USS America during its short stay in the Philippines.
Specifically, the former president joined the reception held last March 21st to welcome the vessel.
Arroyo was personally invited to the event by US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson and Navy Capt. Shockey Snyder.
The reception, held aboard the battleship that was docked at Pier 15 of the Manila South Harbor, was attended by several officials in the executive and legislative branches of government, top officers of the Philippine military and members of the press. The guests were personally welcomed by Snyder and his crew.
The USS America, an amphibious assault ship that can operate stealth fighters and is manned by almost 1,000 sailors, arrived last March 19 from Japan.
In a press briefing Snyder said the ship was visiting the Philippines “to have some rest and relaxation (R and R) for the crew”. He said the visit had been planned several months ahead.
Arroyo said she was happy that the American sailors were given a chance to have their R and R in the Philippines.
Furthermore, she hopes that in the future, these sailors could take time off from their duties, return to the Philippines and see more of the country, “so they can really appreciate the beauty of the Philippines and the warmth of our people”.
The ship left the Philippines on March 23.