GOVPH

BRP Andres Bonifacio’s Kuala Lumpur Visit Highlights Deepening Ph-Malaysia Partnership

Ambassador J. Eduardo Malaya (third from left) and Madam Rena Cristina Koa-Malaya (center) lead the cake cutting ceremony together with Guest of Honor Lt. General Dato’ Abdul Hlim bin Hj Jalal (third from right). Also in photo are (from left) Capt.Brendo Casaclang PN, Embassy Defense Attache Ralph Mamauag PAF, Commodore Albert A. Mogol PN and Captain Toribio Adaci PN.

04 April 2017 –  Officials of the Philippine Navy frigate BRP Andres Bonifacio hosted a reception for the members of the diplomatic and defense attaché corps, Wisma Putra officials, leading businessmen, and the members and friends of the Filipino-Malaysian community at Port Klang on March 31. BRP Andres Bonifacio is currently docked at the port after its participation in the recently-concluded Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) Exhibition 2017 from March 21 to 25, and port call and maritime exercises at the Royal Malaysian Naval base in Lumut, Perak.

Skippered by Captain Brendo Casaclang, BRP Andres Bonifacio, with its 88-person complement, was welcomed by Guest of Honor Malaysian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Lt. General Dato’ Abdul Halim bin Hj Jalal.

In a message before some 300 guests and crew members, Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia J. Eduardo Malaya said that the frigate’s goodwill visit “highlights the deepening partnership between the Philippine and Malaysian governments and their respective armed forces, including in addressing issues of common concern such as extremism and transnational crimes.”

Malaya noted that with the relentless law enforcement operations conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Sulu and Basilan and the enhanced intelligence-sharing and coordinated patrols in the Sulu Seas between the Philippine and Malaysian sides, there is no kidnapping incident in Sabah waters since November 2016. Moreover, the remaining Malaysians in the hands of lawless elements have been safely recovered.

Ambassador Malaya also cited the heightened interest of Malaysian companies in investment opportunities in the Philippines vis a vis the increasing number of PH companies doing business in Malaysia, led by Petron Corporation, PLDT, and Pancake House.

Commodore Albert A. Mogol, the head of the visiting mission and Commander of the Philippine Navy’s Fleet Marine Ready Force, described the visit as a manifestation of the Philippine Navy’s “commitment to promote harmonious relations between and among countries.” 

The event featured performances by the Philippine Marine Corps band and Kuala Lumpur-based Filipino performers Gina Panizales and Jennifer Alferez.

BRP Andres Bonifacio is the third Gregorio del Pilar-class frigate to be commissioned by the Philippine Navy. The frigate is expected to return to home shores on April 6, after leaving Manila on March 14. END

Top left photo: Ambassador Malaya delivers his remarks. Top right photo: Philippine Navy during the parade of colors. Bottom photos: Miss Gina Panizales serenades the crowd with the Philippine Marine Corps band.