Korean ships in Manila for activities with PH Navy fleet, troops

Two Korean navy ships are in Manila for a series of activities aimed at strengthening relations between the Philippines and South Korea.

Training ship ROKS Hansando and combat support ship ROKS Hwacheon will be participating in Republic of Korea Navy (ROKN)’s Cruise Training Task Group (CTTG), which will be held in the Philippines to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Korean War Armistice.

CTTG’s participating ships arrived on Dec. 27 at the port of Manila as the training’s 12th port of call, with 460 sailors aboard. It is CTTG’s 28th visit in the country, the highest record among countries in Asia.

Among CTTG’s scheduled activities in Manila is a visit to Korean War memorial in the Cemetery of the Heroes for a wreath laying ceremony and a visit to Korean War memorial hall to honor the noble sacrifice of the Korean War veterans.

Another activity is a joint cultural performance of both navies’ bands and honor guards, which will happen in Rizal Park.

CTTG will also visit the Philippine Fleet, tour the Philippine Navy Special Operations Command, and host receptions to strengthen the close friendship between the navies of both sides.

CTTG will host a Defense Industry Exhibition on board ROKS Hwacheon in tandem with the ROK ship tour during the port call at Manila.

Visitors, including Philippine Navy sailors, will witness the prowess of both Korean Defense Industry and the ROK ‘Navy Sea GHOST’ (Navy Sea Guardian Harmonized with Operating manned Systems and Technology-based unmanned system).

After getting underway from Manila, CTTG will conduct a joint passing exercise (PASSEX) with BRP Jose Rizal of the Philippine Navy to refortify the relationship between the two navies. — Joseph Pedrajas

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