SUBIC BAY, Republic of the Philippines (NNS) -- Submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) departed Subic Bay, Republic of the Philippines, Sept. 30 after a successful port visit.

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.

"I'm extremely grateful to our gracious hosts here in Subic Bay," said Capt. Drew St. John, Frank Cable's commanding officer. "This was a great visit for the crew. The Sailors and civilian mariners were true ambassadors, whether participating in a community relations project, or acting as tour guides for students visiting the ship. Frank Cable's visit was another demonstration of the strength and commitment to our longstanding relationship with the Philippines, and the impact of the crew's engagement in the community helped to continue building on the strong ties between our two nations."

While in port, Frank Cable Sailors had the opportunity to participate in tours offered by the ship's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation department, which included exploring local attractions and sampling local cuisine.

"This was my first time in the Philippines, and I loved it," said Petty Officer 3rd Class Daina Rentie, a native of Kansas City, Missouri. "If I could be stationed there I would. My favorite things to do there were go to the mall and visit Zoobic Safari."

Many Sailors were able to spend time with their families and friends who are residents of the Philippines.

"The last time I was in the Philippines was four years ago," said Petty Officer 1st Class Yunichi Kinney, a native of the Philippines. "I am very fortunate to be a part of the USS Frank Cable, which brought me back to my motherland."

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 of deployed U.S. naval force submarines and surface vessels in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.