MANILA, Philippines – The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Cutter Stratton conducted a port visit in Puerto Princesa City in Palawan, participating in a series of engagements with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) from May 16 to 19, with the aim of strengthening bilateral partnership and promoting interoperability, the US Embassy in Manila said.
The activities included technical consultations on operational best practices, engagements with the local community, and sports competitions, the Embassy stated in a news release.
During the weeklong transit from Guam, two PCG personnel joined the USCGC Stratton, as part of the United States’ efforts to provide PCG personnel with “training opportunities while at sea.”
“As observers, they participated in a range of training activities, including on deck operations, engineering drills, and vessel mooring,” the Embassy added.
(Courtesy of U.S. Embassy in the Philippines)
Upon departing from Puerto Princesa, the USCGC Stratton will conduct an at-sea exercise with the PCG and the Philippine Navy, to focus on maritime law enforcement, search and rescue, and marine protection in the Sulu Sea.
From the Philippines, the cutter will transit to Japan where it will participate in the second trilateral coast guard exercise between the United States, the Philippines, and Japan.
The first trilateral maritime exercise was held off the coast of Mariveles, Bataan, in June 2023, the Embassy stated.
Earlier, Captain Brian Krautler, commanding officer of the USCGC Stratton, welcomed U.S. Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and other PCG personnel aboard for a tour of the vessel on May 16.
“The arrival of the USCGC Stratton is a moment of pride and possibility,” Ambassador 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,” Carlson added.
