Manila -- United States President Barack Obama attended a maritime security event yesterday aboard the BRP Gregory del Pilar at Pier 13 near the National Coast Watch Center in Manila Harbor. This first event of President Obama’s visit included a tour of the ship from Commanding Officer Captain Vincent Sibala, a meet and greet with Philippine defense officials, U.S. sailors from USS Fitzgerald, and Philippine sailors from the Gregorio del Pilar, and remarks from the President to national and international media on the pier.

“The United States has been committed to the security of this region for more than 70 years,” said President Obama. “We have a treaty obligation, an ironclad commitment to the defense of our ally, the Philippines. You can count on the United States.”