US Navy's USS Chief arrives in PHL for port visit

The US Navy's USS Chief has arrived in the Philippines for a port visit.

According to the US Navy, the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Chief arrived on Sunday to work with the Philippines in strengthening regional security and stability as well as enhancing interoperability.

“The crew of Chief is thrilled at the opportunity to visit Manila,” Lieutenant Commander Fred Crayton, commanding officer of the USS Chief, said.

“Our camaraderie with the Philippines is one of our most enduring relationships in the Indo-Pacific region. The Filipino people are some of our closest friends, partners, and allies in which we share a connection based on shared sacrifices for democracy, human rights, and strong societal ties," Crayton added.

Sailors aboard the USS Chief prepare to render honors to US 7th Fleet Flagship USS Blue Ridge while arriving in Manila on Sunday, March 17, 2019, for a port visit. US Navy/Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Jordan Crouch

Due to this, Chief sailors will have an opportunity to visit the city and interact with Filipino counterparts.

For Culinary Specialist 1st Class Angelo Dano, who was born and raised in the Philippines, it is a chance to visit his family and friends.

“I’m pretty excited about returning. I’m going to surprise my two daughters who are visiting some of my family in Manila while we’re in port," Dano, who moved to the US in 2003, said.

USS Chief, which is part of the Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response platform for contingency operations. —Anna Felicia Bajo/KG, GMA News