I would like to greet everybody: the Ambassador, Rear Admiral Menon, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, General Romeo Brawner Jr., the National Security Advisor, Secretary Eduardo Año, the team of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, other dignitaries who were earlier acknowledged, other members of the diplomatic corps, and the Defense Attachés coming from different countries. We also have representatives from the Philippine Coast Guard. 

Good evening to everyone. It's an honor and privilege to be here, representing the Flag Officer-in-Command of the Philippine Navy, Vice Admiral Jose Ma Ambrosio Espelita, who, due to some pressing commitments, has sent me as his representative. This evening, I would like to share his speech with you all. And I quote: 

"At the onset, allow me to express our warmest gratitude to Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, the Flag Officer-in-Command of the Eastern Fleet, and his team for joining us this evening as we momentarily pause from our daily routines to partake in meaningful interactions through this cocktail reception. 

We are provided a welcome opportunity to unwind, connect, and converge with one another. We are also delighted to host the Indian Navy ships: INS Delhi, INS Kiltan, and INS Shakti here in Manila. Additionally, we are anticipating the arrival of INS Sandhayak. 

Our gathering this evening embodies the warm and multifaceted relations between our nations, built over more than seven decades and rooted in historical ties, shared democratic values, and common interests, particularly the advancement of a free, open, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. These points of convergence stand as a firm basis for expanding our bilateral engagements, which also encompass the fields of defense and security. It is in this spirit that we are able to harness collaboration between the Philippine Navy and the Indian Navy, channeled through maritime cooperation activities, hydrography, capacity-building initiatives, as well as our shared aspirations in the maritime environment. 

As we chart our path ahead, may these commonalities, including our mutual resolve to protect the global commons and safeguard regional peace and stability in our waters, continue to serve as strong pillars for sustained cooperation between the Philippines and India, as well as between our navies." 

With this, I would like to congratulate everyone. Once again, thank you very much, and we hope that you will enjoy the rest of your stay here in the Philippines, in the capital city of Manila. 

Mabuhay tayong lahat.