Top US Navy commander to visit Manila to tackle security challenges

US Pacific Command Chief Admiral Samuel Locklear. U.S. NAVY FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – The Commander of the US Pacific Command, Admiral Samuel Locklear III, will be in Manila for a two-day visit to tackle “security challenges,” the United States Embassy said Wednesday.

He will be in Manila on Thursday and Friday to meet with his counterparts in the Philippine government.

“During his visit, Admiral Locklear will consult with defense officials in the Philippine government on a range of common security challenges,” the US Embassy said.

Locklear’s visit came amid China’s intrusion in Ayungin shoal, which is located in the Philippine territory.

He also visited the Philippines in July and December last year, also amid a territorial dispute among Asian countries in the South China Sea.