Former President Arroyo joins welcome for US warship
SENIOR Deputy Speaker and Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has joined a reception event to welcome the US warship USS America.
Arroyo, a former President, was personally invited to the event by US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carlson and Navy Capt. W. Shockey Snyder.
The reception was held aboard the battleship which was docked at Pier 15 of the Manila South Harbor last March 21.
It was attended by several officials in the executive and legislative branches of government, top officers of the Philippine military and members of the press. The guests were personally welcomed by Capt. Snyder and his crew.
The USS America, an amphibious assault ship that can operate stealth fighters and is manned by almost 1,000 sailors, arrived March 19 from Japan. In a briefing for the press, Capt. Snyder said the ship was visiting the Philippines “to have some rest and relaxation for the crew”, and that the visit had been planned several months ahead.
Recalling her visit to the USS America, the former president said she is happy that the American sailors were given a chance to have their R and R in the Philippines .
Furthermore, she hopes that in the future, these sailors could take time off from their duties, return to the Philippines and see more of the country, “so they can really appreciate the beauty of the Philippines and the warmth of our people”.
The ship left the Philippines on March 23rd.
