A French Navy Destroyer entered Manila Bay and docked at the South Harbor of the Port of Manila last week for a five-day port call, according to the Philippine Navy after their traditional passing exercise .
At 5,000 feet long and weighing around 6,000 tons, Bretagne, an Aquitaine-class frigate with anti-submarine warfare capability, will be in Manila from May 31 to June 4 for a five- day official port visit.
“The ship is capable of operating in all spectrums of maritime operations. It is capable of detecting, tracking and engaging, if required,” according to Captain Gwenegan Le Bourhis, commanding officer of FS Bretagne.
Le Bourhis also disclosed that they are ready to perform live fire exercises together with their counterpart here in the Philippines.
A Philippine Navy contingent rendered a customary welcome ceremony for the visiting ship and its 150 personnel.
According to Le Bourhis, the visit is part of the French Navy’s routine mission to demonstrate freedom of navigation.
During their port call, they will also enable interactions between Filipino and French navy officers.
“We will take time during our stay in Manila to build up mutual knowledge and common procedures to operate together at sea in this region,” Capt Le Bourhis said.
While in the Philippines, personnel of the Bretagne will have the opportunity to rest and explore the country’s capital.
The French community in Manila will also be invited to tour the warship.
Captain Gwenegan Le Bourhis and the French Embassy in Manila invited some members of the press on board the vessel for a short press briefing.
