US Aircraft Carrier Visits Philippines After West Philippine Sea Patrol

The United States Navy’s aircraft carrier USS George Washington started its port visit in the Philippines after patrolling the West Philippine Sea. The Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is anchored off Manila Bay. This is the first port visit for George Washington on this patrol and overall since becoming the forward deployed naval forces carrier in this region, said USS George Washington commanding officer Captain Timothy Waits.

The crew will have tours in the country for rest and relaxation. The presence of the US aircraft carrier is part of a typical patrol to express shared ideals with partners and allies in the region, according to Waits. Around 5% of the crew are Filipino-Americans, with Aircrew Survival Equipmentman Petty Officer 3rd Class Ynn de Jesus among them. She serves as a parachute rigger, inspecting, packing, and repairing parachutes and survival equipment to ensure the safety of pilots and passengers.

Joining the US military has helped De Jesus develop her character and broaden her experience. Tensions persist as Beijing claims most of the South China Sea, including parts claimed by the Philippines. The West Philippine Sea includes maritime areas on the western side of the Philippine archipelago, with the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling in favor of the Philippines over China's claims in 2016.

GMA News Online was invited to observe the activities of the USS George Washington in the West Philippine Sea.