The Philippine Navy (PN) welcomed the Indian Navy (IN) ships at Berth 15, South Harbour, Manila on June 12, 2013 as they arrived for a 5-day goodwill visit from 12 to 16 of June 2013. Under the Command of Rear Admiral (IN) P. Ajit Kumar, the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEP), the ships that arrived at the port were INS Saptura, a Shivalik-class stealth multi-role frigate, INS Shakti (A57), a Deepak-class fleet tanker, INS Ranvijay (D55), a Rajput class destroyer, and INS Kirch (P62), a Kora class corvette.
The visit involved port briefing related to security, intelligence and health aboard INS Shakti, courtesy calls, receptions, shipboard tours, followed by a Passage Exercise (PASSEX), tours and goodwill games involving IN and PN counterparts. The said activities were aimed at enhancing the skills and mutual expertise along with fostering a bond of friendship between the two navies.
What is more, Vice Admiral (IN) Anil Kumar Chopra, the Flag Officer Commanding -in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command (FOC-In-C East) of the Indian Navy is staying in an official visit to the Philippines starting from 15 June 2013 until 18 June 2013. Within the framework of the visit, the Admiral will pay courtesy calls, visit Corregidor and Intramuros, Central Command (CENTCOM) in addition to Naval Forces Central (NAVFORCEN).
[mappress] Press Release, June 17, 2013; Image: Philippine Navy