Philippine US Military and Coast Guard Collaborate in Maritime Exercises
The military and Coast Guard forces of the Philippines and the United States recently joined forces in maritime exercises off the coasts of Palawan and Occidental Mindoro. This joint training aims to enhance surveillance capabilities and improve operational coordination between the two countries. The Philippine US military and Coast Guard exercises strengthen their readiness to address evolving maritime challenges.
According to sources familiar with the matter, this activity is part of the 6th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM). Notably, this year’s exercises marked the first time the U.S. Coast Guard and Philippine Coast Guard took part together, highlighting a growing whole-of-nation approach to maritime security.
Joint Efforts to Boost Maritime Security
Officials noted that the joint participation of the Coast Guard units underscores the commitment to enhancing maritime cooperation and defense partnerships. One senior military leader emphasized, “As the Philippines continues to navigate evolving maritime challenges, joint activities like the MCA reaffirm the AFP’s commitment to modernizing its capabilities and strengthening defense partnerships to secure our national and regional maritime interests.”
The Philippine Navy contributed several key assets to the exercises, including the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), BRP Domingo Deluana (PG905), and an AW109 naval helicopter. Meanwhile, the Philippine Air Force deployed both Super Tucano and Sokol helicopters to assist in the operations.
Assets and Exercises in Focus
On the Coast Guard side, the Philippines dispatched the BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV 9702) and BRP Malapascua (MRRV 4403), while the United States utilized its Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752) along with the Navy’s P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
The joint exercises featured a variety of drills, such as the Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), Division Tactics and Officer of the Watch Maneuver (DIVTACS/OOW), Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), and the Finish Exercise (FINEX). These activities aimed to improve communication, coordination, and tactical operations between the forces.
Through these collaborative efforts, both nations continue to strengthen their maritime security partnership, ensuring readiness against potential threats in the region. The ongoing cooperation also reflects a shared commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the surrounding waters.
For more news and updates on Philippine US military and Coast Guard exercises, visit Filipinokami.com.