In a display of strategic outreach and maritime cooperation, Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Shakti, and Kiltan made a port call to Manila, Philippines, as part of the operational deployment of the Indian Navy’s Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea.
The visit not only underscored India’s strong ties with the Philippines but also reaffirmed its commitment to fostering deeper partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
The port call, laden with diplomatic significance, featured a plethora of engagements aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation and promoting mutual understanding between the Indian Navy and the Philippines Navy.
Key highlights of the visit included Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), sports fixtures, cross-deck visits, cultural exchanges, and collaborative community outreach programs, reflecting the multifaceted nature of India-Philippines maritime relations.
Rear Admiral Rajesh Dhankhar, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), along with the Commanding Officers of the visiting Indian ships, engaged in constructive discussions with Rear Admiral Renato David, Commander Philippine Fleet (CPF), and Vice Admiral Rolando Lizor Punzalan Jr, Deputy Commandant for Operations, Philippine Coast Guard.
These interactions served as platforms for sharing insights, fostering camaraderie, and exploring avenues for enhanced naval cooperation and interoperability between the two maritime forces.
FOCEF also held extensive discussions with Vice Admiral Toribio Dulinayan Adaci JT, the Flag Officer in Command (FOIC), on matters of mutual interest, regional security dynamics, and the evolving security situation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The dialogues aimed to identify common challenges, opportunities for collaboration, and strategies to uphold peace, stability, and freedom of navigation in the region.
The port visit to Manila symbolizes the deep-rooted diplomatic and defense ties between India and the Philippines, further bolstering the strategic partnership between the two nations.
It serves as a tangible manifestation of India’s commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific, in alignment with its ‘Act East’ and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.
By engaging in collaborative initiatives and fostering closer maritime cooperation, India and the Philippines reaffirm their shared commitment to upholding the rules-based international order and promoting regional prosperity and security.
The port call underscores India’s role as a responsible maritime stakeholder and a reliable partner in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
