VLADIVOSTOK – The visiting Philippine Navy contingent got to see the inside of the vaunted Russian Kilo Class submarine yesterday.
Naval Task Force (NTF-87) commander Capt. Florante Gagua and BRP Tarlac skipper Capt. Estelito Lagadia led the group of Filipino sailors on a tour of the submarine guided by their Russian counterparts.
The government has been scouting for big-ticket defense items in line with the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
Russia is among the countries that have expressed readiness to supply the Philippines with needed military equipment and has offered the Philippine government a soft loan for its planned submarine procurement.
“We’re hoping that in coming years, the Philippine Navy will have its own submarine,” Gagua said.
On the lighter side, the PN treated their hosts to a dinner reception. The Russian guests particularly enjoyed biko (rice cake) and local spirits.
They also joined in the Tinikling, gamely trying the dance without getting their feet caught between the bamboo poles. The Navy cultural dancers also performed the Carenyosa and Subli folk dances, as the Marine Band played non-stop music that had everyone on the dance floor.
“Literally, we have won their friendship. The number one reason why we are here is to establish friendly partnership,” a naval officer said.
Earlier, Philippine Ambassador to Moscow Carlos Sorreta said he felt so proud and happy seeing a Philippine Navy boat approach the berthing area at this city’s naval facility last Monday.
“During Cold War, out there in the open sea, we both considered each other as foes. But it’s entirely different now,” Sorreta said.
He cited the Navy for helping the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) in performing its mandated task by establishing friendly and diplomatic relations aligned with the country’s independent foreign policy.