The Philippine Fleet and US 7th Fleet would hold staff-to-staff talks from Wednesday to Friday to discuss mutual cooperation and military exchange opportunities.

Lt. Giovanni Badidles, Philippine Fleet spokesperson, said the event will be held at the Lighthouse Marina Resort, Subic Bay Freeport Zone in Zambales province.

He added that Philippine Fleet commander, Rear Admiral Renato David, will chair the proceedings along with US 7th Fleet commander, Vice Admiral Karl Thomas.

“The meeting will yield meaningful discussions on important topics such as mutual cooperation and seek military exchange opportunities including maritime cooperative activities, naval aviation activities, exercises, port visits, personnel exchanges, and support for maritime defense industries, particularly shipbuilding and ship repair,” Badidles said.

He added the staff-to-staff talks between the Philippine Fleet and the US 7th Fleet is a regular dialogue and information exchange that aim to strengthen existing mutual cooperation between the two Navies.

Badidles added that the activity is part of the Philippine Navy’s efforts to International Defense Security Engagement activities that will strengthen cooperation and improve the PN’s capacity and capability in accordance with the Active Archipelagic Defense Strategy and PN Capability Development Plan.

“Last October 11, 2022, a landmark Terms of Reference between the Philippine Fleet and the United States Seventh Fleet was signed, which signified the culmination of the staff-to-staff talks between the two naval forces held last February 2022 in Manila,” he added. (PNA)