FULL TEXT: Obama's speech after touring Philippine Navy flagship

MANILA, Philippines — American President Barack Obama announced on Tuesday the United States' plan to provide two more naval ships to the Philippines as part of his country's maritime security assistance to the Asia-Pacific region.

Speaking after touring Philippine Navy flagship BRP Gregorio del Pilar at the Manila Harbor, Obama said his second visit in the Philippines in the last two years underscores the US' commitment to regional maritime security and freedom of navigation.

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The full text of his speech delivered at 2:51 p.m. (Philippine Standard Time) on Nov. 17, 2015 is below.

Good afternoon, everybody.  It is wonderful to be back in the Philippines.  And I want to thank Secretary Gazmin, General Iriberri, Rear Admiral Alano and Melad, Captain Sibala, and the members of the Philippine Armed Forces for welcoming me here today.  I want to acknowledge the American servicemembers who are here and who are part of our unbreakable alliance.

The United States has been committed to the security of this region for more than 70 years.  We have a treaty obligation, an ironclad commitment to the defense of our ally, the Philippines.  You can count on the United States.

My visit here underscores our shared commitment to the security of the waters of this region and to the freedom of navigation.  This watch center was built with U.S. grants.  The ship that I just toured, a former U.S. Coast Guard vessel, helps the Philippines respond to disasters, perform counterterrorism missions, and patrol the South China Sea.

Today, I can announce that we intend to transfer two additional ships to the Philippine Navy, a research vessel to help map its territorial waters, and another U.S. Coast Guard cutter to bolster the Navy’s ability to conduct long-endurance patrols.  It’s part of our larger plan to increase maritime security assistance to our allies and our partners across the region -- $250 million over the course of two years.  More capable navies and partnership with the United States are critical to the security of this region.

And I want to thank once again the members of the Philippine Armed Forces for their outstanding work.  And, Mr. Secretary, I can tell you that after inspection, the ship looks like it’s in tip-top shape.  Thank you so much.

FULL STORY: Obama: US to provide two more ships to Philippines