Music Room, Malacanan Palace
16 July 2012

President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomed United States Pacific Commander Admiral Samuel Locklear III during a courtesy call in Malacañan Palace.

According to Communications Development and Strategic Planning Secretary Ricky Carandang, Admiral Locklear affirmed the longstanding partnership between the Philippines and the United States and reiterated their commitment to help the Philippines develop its minimum credible deterrent.

Admiral Locklear is in the Philippines from July 15-17 to meet with Philippine government officials and discuss maritime and regional security issues. His three-day tour includes a visit to Camp General Basilio Navarro in Zamboanga City and meetings with Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. and Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto del Rosario.

The U.S. Pacific Command is committed to enhancing stability in the Asia-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation and peace and development, responding to contingencies and deterring aggression.

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