02 May 2016 - Philippine Consul General to Los Angeles Leo Herrera-Lim represented the Philippine Government at the Handover, Christening and Commissioning Ceremonies of the BRP Gregorio Velasquez (AGR 702) held at the 52nd US Naval Base in San Diego, California on April 27.
The simple ceremonies were attended by Department of Defense Undersecretary Jesus C. Milan; Commander US 3rd Fleet Vice Admiral Nora Tyson; Scripps Institution of Oceanography Director Dr. Margaret Leinen; Philippine Fleet Deputy Commander Commodore Narciso Vingson; Commander Sealift Amphibious Force Commodore Rene Medina; BRP Velasquez Commanding Officer Commander Edwin Nera and Defense Attaché Eric Calip.
Consul General Herrera-Lim in his remarks, highlighted the significance of the handover of the vessel during the year that we celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the US and as we renew our mutual commitment to our shared values of democracy, furtherance of scientific research and the preservation of our way of life.
Vice Admiral Tyson in her remarks, highlighted the strong relationship between the Philippines and the United States, particularly their Armed Forces, and the Mutual Defense Treaty continues to be the bedrock of the two countries’ relationship.
Commodore Vingson, in his keynote speech, highlighted the significance to the Philippine Navy of the newly acquired vessel in terms of carrying out its mandate. He also gave the historic orders on the assumption by CDR Edwin Nera of the Command of BRP Velasquez and the Setting of the First Watch.
The BRP Velasquez, an oceanographic research ship was acquired by the Philippines under the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA). The new vessel is named after National Scientist and eminent UP Professor Gregorio Velasquez.
The BRP Velasquez has nine officers and 20 crew members led by CDR. Edwin M. Nera. END
