Security ties between the Philippines and Vietnam grew stronger on Tuesday after Vice Admiral Tranh Thanh Nghiem, head of the Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN), paid a courtesy call on Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Ezpeleta at the Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila.
“We are maritime neighbors with quite a short distance from each other. As we say in Vietnam, the more we meet, the better we understand each other,” Nghiem said. “We share common interests, as well as difficulties, which we must address together for peace and stability.”
Both navies cited the success of the 8th Philippines–Vietnam Personnel Exchange in July and reaffirmed their humanitarian support record—since 2011, the PN has rescued 23 Vietnamese fishers while the VPN has saved 60 Filipino fishers.
Ezpeleta thanked Vietnam for its continued support, especially in aiding distressed Filipino fisherfolk. “We already have a very good relationship. We help each other in many ways, particularly now that we share the same issues and concerns,” he said.
The two navies committed to sustain regular engagements and expand cooperation on regional maritime security. PN public affairs chief Capt. Benjo Negranza said Nghiem’s visit highlights the enduring partnership between both nations, grounded on respect, operational coordination, and a shared goal of peace and stability.