NAVAL BASE GUAM. 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.
“I am very proud that there is a
new acquisition in the Philippine Navy. It is a good signal for the
modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This ship obviously has
the technology and system that is essential in the advancement of our Navy. We
should be proud that our government is showing great steps in really organizing
the AFP. This ship will help us in so many things such as in disaster
situations as well as in the protection of our maritime territory and the
country in general.” Deputy Consul Edgar Tomas Auxilian said during
conversations.
Guam is the fifth port call of BRP Alcaraz
before her final voyage to the Philippines. She is expected to arrive in the
country first week of August 2013.
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