Navy Honors Contingent to Malaysian Exhibit

LIEUTENANT COLONEL EDGARD A AREVALO PN(M)
Director, Naval Public Affairs Office


The Philippine Navy accords honors today, 22 December 2009 to the contingent that participated in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibit (LIMA) in Malaysia.

Naval Task Group LIMA 09 comprised of officers, crew, and some 289 Sailors and Marines arrived in the Philippines yesterday after a month-long mission in Malaysia and Singapore. Two Navy vessels- BRP Quezon (PS 70), a patrol vessel and BRP Dagupan City (LC 551), a logistics ship, participated in the LIMA Exhibit 2009 held from 01-05 December 2009 that showcased the latest in aerospace technology from private industries and manufacturers.

The Exhibit also became a venue among participating navies to affirm their commitment to peace and security. According to Vice Admiral Ferdinand S Golez, the Exhibit was an opportunity for the Philippine Navy to strengthen its cooperation with foreign counterparts, especially among Asian navies.

The Navy also took advantage of the activity to conduct an overseas training cruise for students from the Naval Education and Training Command and the Fleet Training Center. Students and crew of both ships also availed of training facilities at the Royal Malaysian Naval Base in Lumut and observed how the Maritime Information Fusion Center operates during the port visit to Singapore. The trip which covered a distance of 3,854 nautical miles included passing through the equator which is considered a highlight in one’s naval career. Both ships departed Palawan for Langkawi on 23 November 2009.

The LIMA mission headed by Capt Albert Mogol PN (GSC), Commander, Task Group LIMA is among the various international engagements of the Philippine Navy in strengthening its ties among its foreign counterparts. Every year, the Philippine Navy participates in a number of exercises that tests its interoperability in fighting terrorism and security threats in the region.