US ship arrives in Subic Bay

By: Nestor Corrales - 11 years ago

MANILA, Philippines— Amid the maritime dispute between the Philippines and China over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea), a USS Michigan (SSGN 727), an Ohio-class guided-missile submarine, arrived Tuesday in Subic Bay, Zambales for a “routine port call.”

The US Embassy in a statement said the routine port call would highlight the strong historic, community, and military connections between the United States and the Philippines.

“This visit will allow the ship to replenish supplies as well as give the crew an opportunity for rest and relaxation. While in Subic, the sailors of the USS Michigan will visit a school that helps persons with disabilities, and visit the Olongapo City Museum to learn more about Filipino culture and history,” it said.

The arrival of the USS Michigan coincided with the ongoing talks between the Philippines and the US on a proposed agreement that would deepen defense cooperation between the two allied countries.

On Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged US President Barack Obama to adopt an “objective and fair attitude” in dealing with China’s maritime claims over the disputed sea.

China has been firm in its stand that the US government should not intervene in the maritime disputes in the Asian region.