MANILA, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- Two Russian large anti-submarine ships Admiral Panteleyev and Admiral Vinogradov, and large sea tanker Boris Butoma anchored Manila on Friday for a week-long port visit.
Philippine Navy Capt. Lued Lincuna said in a statement that the Russian Navy Pacific Fleet is visiting port from Oct. 20 to 26.
"The visit is in connection with the handover of donated special military equipment to the Philippines," Lincuna said.
Lincuna added that another two Russian Navy vessels, large landing ship Nikolay Vilkov and rescue tag Foty Krylov will dock at the Port of Subic in Olongapo City "for the unloading of the donated equipment" on Oct. 21-25.
Russia has donated 5,000 AK-47 assault rifles, a million rounds of ammunition and 20 military transport trucks to the Armed Forces of the Philippines to help fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The port visit coincides with the official visit to the Philippines of Russian Defense Minister Sergey Shoyguto to participate in the meeting next week of the fourth ASEAN Defense Ministers' Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Clark, Pampanga.
Lincuna said the Philippine and Russian Navies have lined up a series of "confidence-building" activities, including shipboard tours, goodwill games, a wreath-laying ceremony and send-off ceremony with the customary Passing Exercise.
But the highlight of the port visit is the ceremonial handover of donated special military equipment to President Rodrigo Duterte by Russia, according to Lincuna.
"The visit will further strengthen the friendship between the two navies, and enhance maritime cooperation through naval diplomacy and camaraderie," Lincuna said.
On Thursday night, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin as his "good friend" in a speech before businessmen.
Duterte, who assumed office on June 30, is enhancing the Philippine ties to Russia.
Duterte said on Oct. 12 that Russia will donate a total of 5,000 Russian-made AK-47 Kalashnikov rifles, one of the world's most recognizable firearms.
Russian Ambassador Igor Khovaev confirmed the arms shipment. "Russia fully supports (the Philippines) in the struggle against terrorism," he said.
