CEBU, Republic of the Philippines -- Forward-deployed submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) departed Cebu, June 25, its second port call in the Republic of the Philippines.

The port visits to Puerto Princesa and Cebu allowed Frank Cable Sailors and Military Sealift Command mariners to enjoy some rest and relaxation, experience Filipino culture and conduct community relations projects.

The Frank Cable team, consisting of more than 500 Sailors and civilian mariners, is currently on deployment to provide vital flexibility to the fleet commanders, extending the range and impact of U.S. naval forces.

"This was a very successful visit to the Philippines," said Capt. Drew St. John, commanding officer of Frank Cable. "I'm extremely grateful to our gracious hosts in both Puerto Princesa and Cebu. Our Sailors and civilian mariners were great ambassadors while they were on liberty or participating in community relations projects. With the assistance of our hosts, we were able to provide a small amount of support for the needs of the SOS Children's Village in Cebu and the San Pedro Central School in Puerto Princesa."

At the San Pedro Central School, Sailors mentored and played games with around 500 5th and 6th graders; while at the SOS Children's Village, Sailors also played games with children and learned how one organization is making a difference in Cebu one child at a time.

"I get to share a different perspective with these children and expand their knowledge of life's opportunity," said Navy Counselor 1st Class Wilfredo Rivera Jr, a native of Baltimore, who volunteered in Puerto Princesa. "As a parent, I value sharing new experiences with youth. I value spending time with these kids because they remind me to compete with myself and to bring others with me when I experience success."

The visits also allowed Sailors to rest and relax while enjoying the local culture. Frank Cable's Morale, Welfare and Recreation department offered various tours, ranging from visiting the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, one of the great natural wonders of the world, to diving with whale sharks in the waters near Cebu.

Frank Cable is one of two forward-deployed submarine tenders and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to conduct maintenance and support deployed U.S. naval force submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.