US Navy Commander Visits Philippine Navy HQ in Manila

The Philippine Navy renders sideboys honors to Rear Admiral Eric J Anduze USN, Commander, Carrier Strike Group 5 / Task Force 70 during his visit to Philippine Navy Headquarters in Manila on July 4, 2025. PHOTO: PHILIPPINE NAVY

The commander of the US Navy carrier strike group recently paid a courtesy call to Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila.

Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Flag Officer In Command of the Philippine Navy, welcomed Rear Admiral Eric Anduze, Carrier Strike Group 5/Task Force 70 on July 4, 2025.

The visit coincided with US Independence Day and Philippine-American Friendship Day.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation and strengthening maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, the PN said in a statement Sunday.

During the visit, the PN said there were discussions focused on ongoing and future joint activities, including naval exercises, ship visits, and opportunities for closer coordination on operations, training, and modernization.

Anduze took the opportunity to express his gratitude for the warm welcome and highlighted the important role of Filipino sailors in the US Navy.

The aircraft carrier USS George Washington and its escorts on Thursday started its port visit in the Philippines after its patrol in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). —RF, GMA Integrated News