Russia’s Anti-Submarine Destroyer Admiral Tributs, Sea Tanker Boris Butoma Arrive In Philippines For Maritime Drills

Russia sent its anti-submarine destroyer and a replenishment oiler to the Philippines in a bid to hold maritime exercises with the latter, according to reports Tuesday. The two ships are expected to leave on Jan. 7.

The anti-submarine destroyer Admiral Tributs and the large sea tanker Boris Butoma docked in Manila late Monday. The crew of the ships is expected to show anti-terrorism capability and hold talks, according to Rear Admiral Eduard Mikhailov, head of the Flotilla of the Russian Navy Pacific Fleet.

“Our governments will maybe discuss in some period of time the possibilities of our maritime exercises,” Mikhailov said Tuesday. “The biggest problem now in the world is terrorism and piracy, and all our exercises we have, for example, with you we will have to fight these problems and we will show you what we can do and we will see what you can do and show us.”

This is the first visit by Russian navy ships since Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte assumed office last June. He is also seeking to develop a diplomatic alliance with Moscow.

Philippine navy officials welcomed the Russian vessels.

“There will be courtesy calls, tour of historical places within Manila and nearby Cavite province, capability demonstration, goodwill games, wreath laying, shipboard tour and send-off ceremony among others,” Capt. Lued Lincuna, a spokesman for the Philippine navy, said.

According to Mikhailov, the Russian navy is willing to help train the Philippines to battle piracy and terrorism in a bid to strengthen security in the region. The Southeast Asian country is grappling with the problem of Islamist militants.

The latest development comes after relations between the Philippines and the United States strained after Washington criticized Duterte’s ongoing war against illegal drugs.