CINCPAC Admiral Fargo meets with President
Arroyo on mutual security matters

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo receives Admiral Thomas B. Fargo, Commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, in Malacanang Palace in Manila on February 9, 2005. Admiral Fargo met with President Arroyo and senior Philippine government officials to discuss security and military-to-military cooperation. In remarks to media reporters at the Office of the President later, the Admiral said he had a “productive and fruitful” meeting with the President. The U.S., he added, continues to “work closely” with the Philippines “to improve the capability and the capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.” President Arroyo, he said, was “very appreciative of the support that United States has provided.”

---

 

 

President Arroyo congratulates Admiral Fargo after conferring him the Philippine Legion of Honor in recognition of his valuable contribution to Philippine military affairs. “I’m deeply honored by this award,” the Admiral said. “The United States and the Philippines work very closely together for regional security. I’ve been honored to play a very small part in that, but our real success is the strength of this relationship and the close cooperation that we have together regionally to deal with all that threaten peace and stability,” Admiral Fargo said.

---

 

 

With President Arroyo and Admiral Fargo during the award presentation are (l-r): Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Roberto Romulo, U.S. Ambassador Francis Ricciardone, and Joint U.S. Military Assistance Group (JUSMAG) Philippines Chief Col. Mathias Velasco.

 

---

 

 

The Ambassador joins Mayor Atienza and wife in opening the City Hall’s photo and poster exhibit on the Battle for Manila.

 

* * * * *