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USS Bonhomme Richard visits Philippines
An amphibious assault ship of the United States (US) arrived in the Philippines on Sunday for a port visit.
The USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD-6) headed to Manila, carrying 2,500 sailors and marines who will participate in Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) tours and community relations (COMREL) projects like helping those affected by the eruption of the Mayon Volcano in Albay.
Mayon volcano, which erupted in January, has displaced nearly 90,000 Filipinos to safe zones. The service members will prepare the food and other supplies that will be given to the victims.
“We chose this COMREL because it responds to a current natural disaster that is affecting thousands of Filipinos,” Lt. David Hammond, Bonhomme Richard’s assistant command chaplain, said.
“Although we’re unable to have personal interaction with the evacuees, we know that our work will reach them. We’re grateful for the invitation to play a small role in pitching in to help provide for others during a time of need,” he added.
Apart from being involve in such activities, the sailor and marines will also experience the rich culture of the Philippines.
“Following exercise Cobra Gold, we’ve continued our shipboard training and patrol, and now we have the opportunity to experience liberty in Manila. I’m grateful for the chance to share the amazing culture of the Philippines with the crew during this port call,” Capt. Larry McCullen said.
Before heading to Manila, the U.S. amphibious assault ship participated in the multinational exercise Cobra Gold in Thailand. In its 37th iteration of the exercise, Cobra Gold focused on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Philippines is among the participating nations along with Indonesia, Japan, the Kingdom of Thailand, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the U.S.
On March 1, the Los Angeles-class attack submarine USS Bremerton (SSN 698) arrived in the country for a routine port visit during its deployment to the Indio-Pacific region. Aircraft carrier Carl Vinzon and missile destroyer Michael Murphy also visited the Philippines last February 16.
