Seabees from Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 2 and sailors from the Philippine Naval Special Operations Group (NAVSOG) gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony of a joint reconstruction boat ramp at Naval Base Heracleo Alano in Cavite City, Philippines, Nov. 5.

The ceremony marked the culmination of a six-month collaboration between the Philippine navy and U.S. Navy to increase interoperability and hone construction and mission-critical skillsets, said U.S. Navy Seabee Chief Equipment Operator (SCW/DSW) James Igoe.

"The Philippines and U.S. have been great friends for more than 100 years," said Igoe. "Continuing to work together on construction projects such as these will not only keep all our mutual technical skills sharpened but will further enhance our lasting relationship."

Igoe, officer-in-charge of an 11-member unit from UCT 2 stationed at Port Hueneme, California, worked with Philippine engineers to reconstruct a ramp, originally built in 2005, to place boats in the water from the NAVSOG compound.

The reconstructed ramp will enable NAVSOG to enhance their land-sea based training and operations.

Rear Adm. Caesar Taccad, vice commander of the Philippine navy, was the keynote speaker and thanked the U.S. Sailors for their efforts.

"We thank the United States, especially the United States Seabees, who were intricate in the ceremonies today," he said.