CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) commence the second iteration of the maritime cooperative activity in the West Philippine Sea from January 3 to 4, 2024.
The 2-day bilateral event will conduct passing exercises, communication checks, cross-deck exercises, joint patrols, Officer of the Watch (OW) maneuvers, and fixed-wing flight operations.
The AFP sends four Philippine Navy vessels, a SAR/multi-role helicopter, and an anti-submarine warfare capable helicopter. On the other hand, the USINDOPACOM utilized its four US Navy vessels from the Carrier Strike Group 1-- an aircraft carrier, a cruiser, two (2) destroyers, and multiple combat aircraft.
On the first day, the AFP and USINDOPACOM assets arrived at the rendezvous area and performed advanced maritime communication exercises. The participating vessels completed division tactics (DIVTACS), an exercise to develop their confidence in maneuvering near other vessels. Further, the conduct of these exercises requires complete coordination between PH-US assets to enhance the operational capabilities and interoperability of both forces.
AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner, Jr. said, "The 2nd maritime cooperative activity marks a significant leap in our alliance and interoperability with the United States. It also demonstrates our progress in defense capabilities and development as a world-class armed force, as we carry out our mandate to protect the people and the state."
"Our alliance is stronger than ever, sending a message to the world. We are advancing a rules-based international order and a free and open Indo-Pacific region in the face of regional challenges," he added. /
