US turns over port facility to Philippines

MANILA, Philippines — The United States has turned over to the Philippines a newly constructed assault boat pier and maintenance bay facility located in Ternate, Cavite as part of its foreign military financing (FMF) grant.

The US embassy yesterday said the Ternate facility, which was turned over to the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) on Feb. 10, was one of three projects covered by FMF grants worth P256.9 million.

The two others are located in Zamboanga and Puerto Princesa in Palawan.

The turnover of the facility in Zamboanga was held in November, while the project in Palawan is yet to be completed in the coming weeks. The PMC inspected and accepted the Ternate facility on Jan. 26.

The facility included a boat ramp, jetty with landing pad, pier, access road and maintenance bay.

It will be used primarily by the Assault Boat Battalion as well as other commands located at the Marine Base Gregorio Lim.

“The PMC is a driving force in our shared vision for enhanced maritime security in the region.  This project displays the collective commitment of our nations to invest in long-term, shared success,” US embassy Chargé d’ Affaires Heather Variava said.

Marine deputy commandant Brig. Gen. Raul Jesus Caldez said the grant testifies the trust and friendship between the Philippines and the US as well as their shared interest in regional cooperation and mutual capability development.