JAKARTA, Indonesia

The Philippine Navy is exploring ways to collaborate with the Turkish government in its ongoing modernization efforts, state-run media said on Wednesday.

Chief of the Philippine Navy Vice Adm. Giovanni Carlo Bacordo told the Philippine News Agency that a delegation visited Turkey last week at the invitation of Turkish state-owned defense contractor ASFAT.

"The visit was also an opportunity for the Turkish government to showcase their defense capabilities to us through ASFAT, Turkish navy, and other agencies," the agency quoted Bacordo as saying.

He said ASFAT is particularly interested in providing capacity and technology solutions, and participate in acquisition projects for naval vessels and other defense equipment.

“Their main selling point is their centuries-old and proven shipyard capability that guarantees the quality of work and long-term integrated logistics support," he said.

Bacordo added that the successful engagement with Turkish Naval Forces could jumpstart future cooperation in maritime security through joint exercises, personnel exchanges, and education and training.

*Writing by Rhany Chairunissa Rufinaldo with Anadolu Agency's Indonesian language services in Jakarta