U.S. Coast Guard National Security Cutter Bertholf visits Manila

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bertholf (WMSL 750) arrived in Manila, Philippines for the first visit by a U.S. cutter to the country in over 7 years.

The visit follows a bilateral exercise with the Philippine Coast Guard on May 14 in which Bertholf and Philippine San Juan-class patrol vessel BRP Batangas and Boracay-class patrol vessel BRP Kalanggaman conducted search and rescue, maritime security, and law enforcement capabilities training.

While in port, Bertholf crewmembers, several of whom are of Filipino heritage, will train with members of the Philippine Coast Guard. 

The crew will also have opportunities to learn about Filipino culture and meet local citizens through community relations events and tours.

“The officers and crew of Bertholf are excited to visit Manila and work with our counterparts in the Philippine Coast Guard, sharing experiences in port and at sea in search and rescue and maritime law enforcement,” said Capt. John J. Driscoll, Bertholf’s commanding officer. 

“On the personal side, I lived in the Philippines for several years as a young boy, but haven’t been back in 40 years.  I’m excited to be reacquainted with the Philippine culture and people.”

Bertholf is a 418-foot national security cutter home ported in Alameda, California and currently deployed to the Indo-Pacific under the operational control of Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet. 

The cutter and crew are engaging in professional exchanges and capacity-building with partner nations, patrolling, and conducting operations as directed.