190318-N-DS193-056 MANILA, Philippines (March 18, 2019) Vice Adm. Phil Sawyer, left, commander of U.S. 7th Fleet, speaks with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, right, and flag officer in command Vice Adm. Robert Empredad during a reception aboard the U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19). Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy and, as 7th Fleet command ship, actively works to foster relationships with allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific Region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Adam K. Thomas/Released)