Chinese navy fleet makes first Philippine visit in seven years

Chinese naval ships will visit the Philippines for the first time since April 2010, a sign of warming relations between China and the Philippines, local newspaper Chinese Commercial News reports.

Headed by Rear Admiral Shen Hao, deputy commander of the People's Liberation Army Navy's East Sea Fleet, the three Chinese naval ships, composed of the missile destroyer Changchun, missile frigate Jingzhou and supply ship Chaohu, will visit Davao in the Philippines from April 30 to May 2.

A farewell ceremony for a Chinese naval fleet is held in Shanghai, east China, April 23, 2017. The fleet of three Chinese naval ships left Shanghai Sunday morning for public relations visits to more than 20 countries. [Photo: Xinhua]

A Philippine defense ministry spokesman, Arsenio Andolong, said in a statement that the Philippines welcomes the visit by the Chinese navy. The visit is not only intended to build mutual trust, but also is seen as a move by China to show the improving relations with the Philippines.

During the visit, the Chinese navy fleet will hold friendly sports competitions with the Philippine side, and Chinese naval ships will be open to the public on May 1.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, who reportedly extended the invitation for the Chinese navy fleet to visit the Philippines, will board the Chinese navy ships to show the booming relationship between China and the Philippines.