3 Chinese naval ships to dock in Davao City

THREE Chinese naval ships will dock at the city’s port on Sunday, April 30 for customary visits aimed to deepen maritime security cooperation between the two governments amid the disputed territory issues.

Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) Public Information Office Acting Chief Lieutenant Jetmark Marcos told reporters yesterday that they are preparing for the three-day visit of Chinese Navy in the city from April 30 to May 2.

The three naval ships are a guided-missile destroyer, guided-missile frigates, and replenishment ship of the Chinese Navy. The Chinese ship will be headed by Rear Admiral Shen Hao of East China Sea Fleet of the People Revolution Army Navy.

“Just like other foreign navies, there will be a schedule of events that aims cooperation and coordination with other foreign navies,” he said.

This will also foster the two navy’s relation with regards to naval diplomacy and broaden foreign navy partnerships, he added.

He said this is the first time in Mindanao where there will be a navy to navy engagement because usually, most of the foreign navies that come to the country always dock at the South Harbor in Manila.

“Ngayon maganda din ito na opportunity that we will be welcoming a foreign navy here in Mindanao particularly in Davao City,” he added.

According to him, on the second day, they will allow Dabawenyos and other civilians to witness their modern facilities inside.

“Actually this will strengthen coordination, collaboration, and it will promote a sustainable peace and stability in the region and also it will foster the command trust natin,” he said.