The commander of the United States (US) Navy’s Carrier Strike Group 5 made a courtesy call to the Philippine Navy’s top leadership in Manila, reinforcing growing military ties between the two longtime allies.

Rear Admiral Eric Anduze, who leads Carrier Strike Group 5 and Task Force 70, was welcomed by Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta, Flag Officer in Command of the Philippine Navy, during his visit to the naval headquarters before the weekend.

The meeting, which coincided with US Independence Day and Philippine-American Friendship Day, served as an opportunity for both navies to reaffirm their commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

In a statement Sunday, the Philippine Navy said the two commanders discussed ongoing and future bilateral engagements, including joint naval drills, ship visits, and collaboration in operational readiness, training and modernization initiatives.

Anduze expressed appreciation for the reception, saying, “Filipino sailors play an important role in the US Navy,” underscoring the close personal and professional ties between both forces.

The visit followed the recent arrival of the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and its escorts for a port call in the Philippines after a patrol in the West Philippine Sea.

The courtesy call was one of several high-level military engagements held in recent months as Manila and Washington expand security cooperation amid heightened regional tensions.