Philippine Navy Thanks Israel for Continued Support for Modernization

Jerusalem, 7 June, 2023 (TPS) -- MANILA, June 7, 2023 (PNA)
The Philippine Navy’s ongoing modernization program has benefited much from its strong partnership with Israel, said Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. on Tuesday night, following a visit by Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen.

Cohen had visited the Navy headquarters in Manila, as part of the first visit to the Philippines by an Israeli Foreign Minister in more than 50 years.

“Our Navy has benefitted from the partnership and relationship with Israel as we also increased the level of collaboration for the past years,” Adaci said.

Among the products of the Philippine Navy’s partnership with Israel are the installation of launchers and Spike-ER missiles on six of its multi-purpose attack craft; the delivery of four out of nine Shaldag Mark V patrol boats known as the Acero-class gunboats in Philippine service; the refurbishment of the naval shipyard in Sangley Point, Cavite; and the pending delivery and installation of non-light-of-sight missiles and launchers for the Israeli-made patrol craft.

Cohen likewise thanked the Philippine Navy for its long-established cooperation with Israel and considered it “a priority for us to strengthen our relation.”

“We come with an open heart and open mind to cooperate with you in any field,” Cohen said.

Adaci noted that Cohen’s courtesy call helped further strengthen both countries’ ties, paving the way for future engagements between the two nations.