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READOUT: Pacific Fleet Commander's Travel to Republic of the Philippines July 9-11, 2025

US Navy

14 July 2025
From U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

MANILA, Philippines -- Adm. Steve Koehler, commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet, traveled to the Republic of the Philippines alongside Fleet Master Chief Don Davis, July 9-11, 2025 to reaffirm the steadfast and enduring U.S.-Philippine alliance which is critical to advancing the two countries' shared interests, signaling unwavering resolve, and aligning efforts to preserve regional stability.

During his visit to the Philippines, Koehler met with senior Armed Forces of the Philippines officials and U.S. officials to discuss shared security concerns, including maritime security and humanitarian assistance/disaster response.

The meetings in Manila included:

- Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr.
- Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy Vice Adm. Jose Ezpeleta
- U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of the Philippines Hon. MaryKay Carlson

During the trip, Koehler visited Subic Bay to tour Agila Subic Shipyard and Subic Bay Drydock Corporation. The U.S. and the Philippines, as friends, partners, and allies, will continue to pursue projects and opportunities to plan and train together to support our treaty commitments and shared vision for a more peaceful, secure, and prosperous region.

While in Manila, Koehler participated in the 2025 Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS). This year PALS was co-hosted by MARFORPAC and the Philippine Marine Corps, which brought together senior Marine Corps, naval infantry, and military leaders from allied and partner nations across the Pacific. PALS is the premier forum for leaders to strengthen relationships and share best practices and ideas. These relationships are the cornerstone of regional security, stability, and prosperity.

Following PALS, Koehler and Davis met with U.S. forces rotationally deployed to the Philippines. Koehler reiterated the importance of strengthening the alliance between the armed forces of the U.S. and Philippines by increasing opportunities to enhance interoperability through exercises and integration of technology. Our joint and combined forces continue to work closely to resist coercion, respond to crises, and defend our interests.

Koehler also participated in a wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Philippine Heroes' Cemetery. The tomb is dedicated to deceased Filipino servicemembers whose remains have not been identified, commemorating their service and sacrifice. For more than a century, Filipinos and Americans have shared a strong bond rooted in common values and military service. Today, that proud legacy continues highlighting the enduring friendship and alliance that has promoted peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.

Koehler also gave remarks at the Stratbase Institute Conference entitled "9th Year of the Arbitral Victory: Defending the Rules-Based Order through Reinforced Defense Capabilities and Partnerships." He spoke about challenges in the South China Sea affecting the entire Indo-Pacific and how the U.S. and its allies and partners have been effective in deterring adversaries in the region.

The visit to the Philippines underscored Koehler's commitment to strengthening partnerships and maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.