Russian navy commander-in-chief visits Manila

March 21, 2019

Russian Navy Commander in Chief Adm. Vladimir Korolyov visited the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila on Wednesday.

Capt. Jonathan Zata, Philippine Navy public affairs director, said a battalion  accorded Korolyov arrival honors during his visit at the Naval Station Jose Andrada in Roxas Blvd..

“The visiting admiral was welcomed by the Flag Officer In Command (FOIC), Philippine Navy Vice Adm. Robert Empedrad as the military host,” he said.

“He was then conferred the Honorary Flag Rank Command Badge and Plaque at the Hall of Flags followed by the PN organizational briefing,” he added.

Zata said Korolyov's visit at the Philippine Navy headquarters “will pave the way for more PN and Russian navies engagements.”

“More talks are forthcoming to validate areas of cooperation in addressing mutual maritime concerns,” he said.

Zata said Korolyov and members of his staff arrived in the country as official guests of the PN via commercial flight on March 18.

“His visit officially started with a wreath laying at Rizal Monument in Luneta, cultural tour at Intramuros, Manila and visit to PN vessel BRP Tarlac,” he said.

Zata said Korolyov also went to the Armed Forces of the Philippines in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on the  same day.

He said the four-day visit of Korolkov and his staff includes a tour at  Corregidor  Island.

“This visit epitomizes the deepening friendship between the Philippine and Russian Navies established in the recent years,” said Zata.

“It further trumpets the PN’s commitment in promoting naval diplomacy and camaraderie and fostering goodwill with other navies,” he added. Robina Asido/DMS