By Lilian C. Mellejor / Philippine News Agency
DAVAO CITY—Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Zhao Jianhua said the visit of their three navy ships will further strengthen relations between the Philippines and China.
Zhao led the ceremony for the arrival of the three vessels of the China People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Task Group 150 at Sasa Port, with the port call initially set in Manila. He said the goodwill visit is a manifestation of China’s move “to resume friendship with the Philippines”, noting he is looking forward to stronger ties between the two countries.
The three-day visit is the first for China for 2017, and the first in recent years since their last visit in April 2010. The visit is aimed at expanding communications, promoting cooperation and improving friendship between the Philippine Navy and the PLAN.
The Chinese naval ships include the guided missile destroyer Chang Chun (DDG150), guided missile frigate Jin Zhou (FFG532) and type 903 replenishment ship Chao Hu (890). The visit is headed by Rear Adm. Shen Hao, deputy commander of the East Sea Fleet of the PLAN and concurrent commander in chief of the PLAN Task Group 150.
Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, who led local government officials in welcoming the visiting Chinese vessels, officials and staff, said there were three reasons mentioned by the Chinese navy officials on their choice of Davao City as port of call: for a change, since similar visits always happen in the capital city; Davao City is the hometown of Duterte; and that the city is more receptive to see the modern navy ships, the mayor said.
The mayor admitted she was “envious” in seeing the internal parts of one of the navy ships, and wished Duterte could also acquire at least two modern navy ships during his term.
Duterte, who was invited for a reception, was expected to get onboard one of the Chinese navy ships.
Image credits: Presidential Photo