Canadian Navy ship arrives in Zambales for goodwill visit

His Majesty's Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa, a ship of the Royal Canadian Navy, arrived in Subic Bay, Zambales on Thursday for a five-day goodwill visit, the Philippine Navy said on Friday.

In a statement, the Philippine Navy said the Canadian Navy personnel will have confidence-building interactions with their Filipino counterparts.

They will also engage in an outreach activity with the Aeta community and a "Brigada Eskwela" at a public elementary school in Zambales.

“This visit is expected to enhance bilateral relations between the Philippines and Canada, and demonstrates both countries’ commitment to regional security and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region,” the Philippine Navy said.

“These interactions not only contribute to building trust and cooperation among nations but also provide opportunities for respective navies to show capabilities and share best practices in carrying out mandates in support of regional security and stability,” it added.

The commanding officer of BRP Conrado Yap (PS39) Captain Cyrus Mendoza led the Philippine delegation in the welcome ceremony.

Canada’s Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman and Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Chairman and Administrator Jonathan Tan were also present in the event.

Ottawa’s captain Commander Sam Patchell and his staff made a courtesy call at the Naval Operating Base (NOB) Subic.

The Canadian Navy's other ship, Naval Replenishment Unit (NRU) Asterix, is also set to arrive in the country on Saturday as part of the goodwill visit, according to the Philippine Navy. —NB, GMA Integrated News