Stratton Port visit underscores strong U.S.-Phl maritime partnership

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The US Coast Guard Cutter Stratton docked in this city on Friday for a three-day port call, aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and enhancing regional maritime security.

The visit features a packed agenda of professional exchanges, technical consultations, community engagement, and sports activities — all designed to boost coordination and operational synergy between the two coast guards.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan were welcomed aboard the Stratton by the vessel’s commanding officer, Captain Brian Krautler, who highlighted the significance of continued engagement in the region. “This is Stratton’s second deployment to the Philippines in the two years I’ve served aboard,” Krautler said. “Our enduring partnership enables cooperation and combined efforts. Our coast guards stand shoulder-to-shoulder in strengthening maritime security and serve as powerful tools of national defense, diplomacy, and law enforcement.”

The Stratton has been actively participating in maritime operations across the Indo-Pacific through joint exercises and port calls, building stronger ties with regional allies like the Philippines and Japan.

Ambassador Carlson described the continuing collaboration as a clear sign of the strong alliance between the US and the Philippines.

“This marks the sixth U.S. Coast Guard cutter exchange with the PCG since 2019 — proof of the strength of our partnership,” she said. “These engagements are key to enhancing our interoperability and deepening the trust that anchors our maritime alliance.”

Carlson said Stratton’s visit also sets the stage for next week’s first-ever Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) at sea, which will bring together both nations’ coast guard and naval assets.

“The professional exchanges and moments of fellowship over the next three days will lay the groundwork for this milestone activity,” she added.

Carlson also revealed plans for a broader trilateral maritime exercise in June with Japan — a first for a PCG vessel to operate beyond the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“This historic exercise highlights our shared commitment to regional cooperation and maritime security,” she said.

For his part, Admiral Gavan stressed the strategic value of these interactions, particularly in upholding the rule of law at sea.

“Coast guards are the protectors of rules and laws. The interoperability training and port visits — especially those with the US Coast Guard — send a strong message that the seas are governed by international norms,” Gavan said.

He added that the upcoming MCA reflects the mutual defense obligations shared by both countries.

“More than the tactical benefits, the significance of these activities lies in the message they send — that we stand united in preserving peace and security in our maritime domain,” he said.