CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), alongside the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) successfully completed the 14th Philippine-Australia-United States Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) on February 15-16, 2026 in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The two-day exercise, spanning the waters of the WPS reinforces the continuity of multilateral cooperation and reflects the participating nations’ sustained commitment to strengthening maritime security in the region.
Philippine forces deployed a robust mix of air and naval capabilities, including the Philippine Navy’s BRP Diego Silang (FFG7), AW109 helicopter; Philippine Air Force’s FA-50 fighter jets, A-29 Super Tucano, C-208B, and a Sokol Search and Rescue helicopter. Likewise the Philippine Coast Guard also participated with BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV 9701). Meanwhile the ADF had deployed HMAS Towoomba (FFH 156) with an embarked MH-60R helicopter and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, while the US INDOPACOM sent USS Dewey (DDG 105) alongside a P-8A Poseidon.
Exercise serials built upon previous engagements to further enhance operational cohesion. Activities included a Communication Exercise to refine coordination procedures; Maritime Domain Awareness events to strengthen shared situational understanding; and Division Tactics to advance maneuvering proficiency. A Photo Exercise, Replenishment at Sea, and a concluding Hotwash supported transparency, improved logistics coordination, and captured key operational insights for future joint activities.
The 14th MMCA marked the 1st multilateral maritime cooperative activity of the year which underscores a shared, multi-national resolve to strengthen interoperability, and the freedom of navigation and overflight under international law. ///
Photos and Videos by: MAJ TOBIAS PA, MSg Randulf Obinque PAF, A1C Ted Castro and Edward Bungubung
