Rugby Diplomacy: NZ Navy-Volcanoes games boost sports ties

MANILA, Philippines -  The fast-growing game of rugby serves as a strong glue that binds New Zealand-Philippines relations.

It’s thus no surprise that when the frigate Her Majesty’s Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Te Kaha started its four-day official visit in Manila, one of its major activities was a rugby sevens gig.

Last Tuesday, the Te Kaha rugby squad left the ship and hit the field of International School of Manila to play the Phl Volcanoes in a couple of exciting matches.

“We thought bringing in our Navy team to play against the Philippine team would make for entertaining and competitive games,” New Zealand Ambassador David Strachan said.

According to Strachan, the games were aimed at strengthening sports diplomacy between New Zealand and Phl.

“Rugby is a huge part of New Zealand culture. We are delighted to see how much rugby has grown in the Philippines,” he said.

New Zealand, the ambassador noted, has been helping the Phl promote and grow rugby. Last year, Lito Ramirez, the first home-grown Filipino to make the National Rugby Sevens team, was sent to Mt. Manganui in New Zealand to attend four-week training. Ramirez himself pointed out how influential Kiwi coaches have been in introducing him to the sport at age 11 and molding him into what he is right now.

Several Kiwis are active in the Philippine Rugby Football Union and the national team, including Steve Payne, and former All Black Frano Botica, who is currently co-coach of the Volcanoes, along with David Johnston.

“In sport-loving countries such as the Philippines and New Zealand, our relations are further strengthened by sports. This was also highlighted by the Tall Blacks, who visited in Manila last year,” said Strachan.

HMNZS Te Kaha, is docked at the Port of Manila until April 7.