MANILA, Philippines -- The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) departed Manila, Philippines, following a scheduled port visit, Oct. 18.
This routine port call highlights the U.S. continued cooperation with partner countries and our strong support for the region.
"We are honored to receive such a warm welcome in this beautiful country,” said Capt. Edward Angelinas, Chancellorsville commanding officer. “This port visit provided our Sailors a great experience as well as an opportunity for routine repairs. Our Sailors were happy to participate in professional engagements and community service projects while enjoying the Filipino culture."
During the port visit, Sailors were able to explore the surrounding areas through tours sponsored by the ship’s Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR), as well as connect with the people of the Philippines through a community relations (COMREL) event with “Gentle Hands Orphanage,” where Sailors lead games and played activities with orphans of Manila. Gentle Hands Orphanage is a child and youth welfare agency meant to be on the front lines of rescue and rehabilitation of the medical, social, psychological, and educational needs of at-risk children and youth, advocating for the rights of children.
"I am honored to have had the opportunity to participate in an event that increases the morale of children and fosters a healthy relationship between the U.S. and our allies,” said Religious Program Specialist 1st Class Devin Workman, from Bellingham, Washington. “Being able to interact with the kids, to see them share their stories and see their resilience was a real inspiration which left an impact that I will carry for the rest of my life."
Seaman Apprentice Schuyler Olivar, from Manila, Philippines, was one of few Sailors who was able to spend time in his home country during the port visit.
“It was great to be home,” said Olivar. “I haven’t seen some of my relatives since 2014, so it was quite nice to see them. I really missed the people here in the Philippines, they are extremely welcoming and friendly. I’ll tell you, the food is absolutely delicious. The first thing I ordered was my favorite dish, sisig, which is an amazing Filipino food. I’m blessed to have had the visit and I can’t wait to come back.”
USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) alongside the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) departed the Philippines to continue operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Chancellorsville is working as part of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group and has operated in the South China Sea, East China Sea, Sea of Japan and Philippine Sea.
Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region.