Led by Consul General Bayani V. Mangibin and the Naval Base Commander Capt. Mike Ward, the Filipino-American community here tendered a warm welcome to the officers and crew of BRP Alcaraz upon their arrival at Pier X of the base at 9 a.m. July 27, 2013.
After a quick formation of troops at the dock and short remarks from the Consul General and the Base Commander, the Fil-Ams gave each crew member lei made from tiny shells.
“Being the consul general, I consider this as a monument of friendship between the Philippines and US. And, it came at the same time that we really need such platforms back home in safeguarding our territorial waters,” Consul Mangibin said in an interview.
He added that for every three Guamanians you meet, one of them will definitely have a Filipino heritage. The Filipino ancestry here constitutes a huge percentage of the population in the Island. It is a source of pride for us and we are proud and honored.
Meanwhile, Capt. Ward also expressed his positive reception of the Filipino sailors.
“It is wonderful to have BRP Alcaraz here in the base in Guam, which is always a stopping port for different ships from different Navies all over the world, and BRP Alcaraz is an example to that. It is good to foster partnerships and camaraderie with other allied navies,” said Capt.Ward The arrival ceremony was followed by a Command briefing at the ship’s wardroom. Thence, a short tour at the bridge and mess deck pursued.
The Filipino Community also hosted a lunch for the crew of BRP Alcaraz at Leo Palace Resort in the Mangilao area. It was the chance where the sailors and Fil-Ams got to know each other personally and had a good conversation.
[mappress] Press Release, July 29, 2013; Image: The Philippine Navy