United States Secretary of Defense, Sec. Lloyd Austin III visited othe Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales on Wednesday to assess the industrial capabilities of companies in the free port that will contribute to Philippine military’s modernization and their capacity to maintain ships of partner nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
“We’ve come a long way in our relationship with the Philippines. I think it’s been fascinating to be a part of this and we are looking to a lot more going forward,” Sec. Austin said during his visit.
The Philippine Navy Flag Officer In Command Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr. expressed the Philippine Navy’s deep appreciation for Sec. Austin’s visit as a clear manifestation of the US support to the Philippine Navy.
Sec. Austin recently engaged in high-level discussions with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro and other officials as part of the 4th PH-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue where he reiterated the United States’ commitment to deepening ties with key allies.
Subic Bay was home to the US 7th Fleet until the Philippine Senate voted to terminate the bases agreement in 1991.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: US Defense Secretary to assess industrial capability in Subic Bay
