The US Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Stratton—a 418-foot cutter operating in the US 7th Fleet area of operations alongside regional allies and partners—held a port visit in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, from May 16 to 19.
During the visit, the USCGC Stratton’s crew participated in a series of engagements with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), including technical consultations on operational best practices, engagements with the local community, and sports competitions.
These activities aimed to strengthen their bilateral partnership and promote interoperability.
USCGC Stratton commanding officer Captain Brian Krautler welcomed US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and other PCG personnel aboard for a vessel tour on May 16.
“The arrival of the USCGC Stratton is a moment of pride and possibility,” Carlson said.
“This is the sixth USCG cutter exchange with the PCG since 2019—a testament to the strength of our bond and the enduring value of our Alliance. These engagements are a priority as they enhance our interoperability and deepen the trust that defines our maritime partnership,” she added.
Additionally, two PCG personnel joined the USCGC Stratton’s weeklong transit from Guam as part of the United States’ efforts to provide PCG personnel with training opportunities while at sea.
They participated as observers in a range of training activities, including on-deck operations, engineering drills, and vessel mooring.
Upon departure, the USCGC Stratton will hold an at-sea exercise with the PCG and the Philippine Navy focused on maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and marine environmental protection in the Sulu Sea.
The cutter will then head to Japan, where it will participate in the second trilateral coast guard exercise between the country, the United States, and the Philippines. It can be recalled that the first trilateral maritime exercise was held off the coast of Mariveles, Bataan, in June 2023.