German warships to visit PH next week

Metro Manila, Philippines — Two German Navy vessels will visit the country on Sept. 16-19 as part of Berlin's effort to bolster security cooperation and defense diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific region.

This visit marks the first time in over 20 years that German warships will dock in the Philippines, signaling a significant step toward strengthening military ties.

The frigate FGS Baden-Württemberg, Germany's most advanced Type F125 warship, will be accompanied by the replenishment ship FGS Frankfurt am Main.

The visit will include a number of activities such as courtesy calls to high-ranking defense officials, a passing exercise (PASSEX) with a Philippine Navy vessel, and a friendly football match between German and Filipino sailors.

In an interview with NewsWatch Plus, German Ambassador to the Philippines Andreas Pffafernoschke said the port call underscores Germany's commitment to maintaining free and secure shipping routes and upholding a rules-based international order.

“We have the war in Ukraine, we have challenges in the South China Sea—both of which are related to the international rules-based order. The Philippines and Germany are working together to safeguard this order,” said Pffafernoschke.

The ambassador also highlighted efforts to enhance maritime security cooperation.

“We will resume the program for training Philippine soldiers in Germany. The two defense ministers have agreed on specific areas of cooperation,” he added.

The two ships left Germany on Aug. 25 for their Indo-Pacific mission, making a five-day stopover in Japan. They proceeded to Incheon, South Korea before heading to Manila.