The ARM Cuauhtemoc (BE01), a sail training ship operated by the Mexican Navy, anchored in Manila on Friday, Aug. 9, for a goodwill visit and an exercise with the Philippine Navy (PN).
“The goodwill visit of ARM Cuauhtemoc serves as an opportunity to strengthen and reaffirm the Philippine-Mexico bilateral ties and promote the shared commitment to enhancing maritime security in the region,” Commander John Percie Alcos, PN spokesperson, said on Saturday, Aug. 10.
Commo. Vincent Sibala, commander of the Littoral Combat Force, led the PN delegation that accorded a welcome ceremony to ARM Cuauhtemoc and the Mexican delegates led by the ship’s commanding officer, Captain Victor Hugo Molina Perez, along with Mexican Ambassador to the Philippines Daniel Hernandez Joseph.
Sibala shared best naval practices and cultural similarities with Perez, highlighting the longstanding relations between the Philippines and Mexico.
“It really shows that there is really a very strong connection between your country and my country because we share a common heritage,” said Sibala, who represented PN Flag Officer in Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. during the ceremony.
While in the country, the Mexican Navy will hold reciprocal receptions with the PN, goodwill games, a shipboard tour, and a passing exercise (PASSEX) during the send-off ceremony.
They will be in Manila until Aug. 13.