By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — A Dutch naval frigate, HNLMS De Ruyter, arrived in Manila as part of efforts to strengthen maritime cooperation between the Philippines and the Netherlands and promote freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The vessel’s visit from May 22 to May 24 forms part of its five-month deployment dubbed “Pacific Archer,” where it will participate in naval exercises with allied nations across the region. Prior to arriving in the Philippines, the frigate also conducted similar drills in India.
Dutch Ambassador Marielle Geraedts said the ship’s visit symbolizes the strong relationship between the two countries as they celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the Philippines and the Netherlands.
According to Geraedts, the presence of the Dutch warship also highlights the importance both nations place on maritime security.
She noted that more than 120 Dutch companies are currently operating in the Philippines, while Filipino seafarers make up a significant portion of crews aboard Dutch commercial vessels.
An estimated 14,000 to 22,000 Filipinos are currently living in the Netherlands and the Dutch Caribbean islands, most of them working as seafarers on Dutch-flagged ships.
Philippine Ambassador Eduardo Malaya also emphasized that Dutch investments in the Philippines have reached P755 billion or €12 billion over the past 12 years, making the Netherlands one of the country’s major foreign investors.
Meanwhile, Geraedts said the Netherlands remains open to expanding defense cooperation with the Philippines as part of its Indo-Pacific strategy.
HNLMS De Ruyter commander Capt. Roger de Wit stressed that stability and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific are vital for the Netherlands since a large portion of European trade passes through the region.
During its stay in Manila, the Dutch crew will engage with around 150 Philippine naval cadets through ship tours and briefings on naval operations.
The Dutch frigate will also participate in a bilateral exercise with the Philippine Navy focused on communication and maneuvering drills to test the interoperability of both naval forces.
ia/xf
