CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), together with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), successfully conducted a Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in Manila Bay and waters off Mariveles, Bataan on March 20, 2026.
The activity dubbed as Bilateral MCA 26-3.1 was aimed at enhancing interoperability among participating forces in support of maritime security and sustaining maritime response in the Philippine Maritime Zones.
Participating Philippine assets included the BRP Antonio Luna (FFG15), two (2) A-29B Super Tucano, one (1) C-208B aircraft and one (1) Sokol Search and Rescue Aircraft, as well as the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV 8301) from the Philippine Coast Guard. The United States deployed the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) for the activity.
During the activity, participating units carried out a series of exercises, including communications check and a photo exercise.
The successful conduct of the MCA reflected the continuing commitment of the Philippines and the United States to strengthen coordination and cooperation in promoting regional maritime security, stability, and adherence to international law.
The AFP remains committed to building strong defense partnerships and enhancing its capability to safeguard the country’s maritime interests and uphold a rules-based international order.///
Photo by: PO3 Jess Tommy Gonzales PN and Edward Bungubung
