Manila wants third US patrol frigate

Manila: US senators assured President Benigno Aquino of continued support, including their backing to secure a third patrol frigate for the Philippines Navy.

Senators John McCain, Joe Lieberman, Sheldon Whitehouse and Kelly Ayotte, visited Aquino at the presidential palace, Malacanang, in Manila. They are all members of the US Senate Armed Services Committee.

Earlier on Tuesday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario met with the US Senate Armed Forces Committee members and exchanged views on the future of Philippines-US relations. During the meeting, the officials also discussed US defence and development assistance to the Philippines, West Philippine Sea (WPS) and China, and Mindanao Peace Process.

Also during the exchange, del Rosario requested US officials for a third patrol frigate which would enable the Philippines to attain minimum credible defence posture and to enhance maritime domain awareness, particularly in the WPS. Currently, the country's maritime defence in the WPS is being provided by the BRP Gregorio del Pilar, a Hamilton Class Weather High Endurance Cutter.