A Canadian warship from the Pacific Naval Fleet has docked in Manila for a goodwill visit to perform humanitarian missions in the Philippines in advance of the country’s June 12 Independence Day, the Canadian Embassy reports.

At the same time, the Commander of the Canadian Fleet in the Pacific Rear-Admiral Tyrone Pile will also be in Manila to give a briefing on Canada’s naval strategy for Asia-Pacific.

"I am pleased to welcome HMCS Ottawa, its officers and crew, to Manila. The Philippines has always been a very hospitable host to our fleet and I know this visit will further emphasize our relationship that bridges the Pacific Ocean," Canadian Embassy Charge d’affaires Nicolaas Oosterveen said.

Pile will give a briefing at the National Defense College of the Philippines at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, while HMCS Ottawa’s officers and crew will be involved in various activities including charity events, a chefs’ cook-off, tour for the media, and calls on Philippine government officials, according to the Canadian official.

Upon arrival, the ship will be the venue of a luncheon that will include select business leaders who will be given a presentation on Canada’s Pacific Gateway strategy, designed to promote Canada’s position as a strong trading partner and key entry point for international commerce in the Asia-Pacific region, he said.

Ship officers will also attend together with their Philippine Navy counterparts, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Manila. It will be followed by a courtesy call on Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim.

HMCS Ottawa will be the venue of a charity dinner that will feature a menu developed by 10 executive chefs of top hotels in Metro Manila, Tagaytay, and Cebu.