CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City—The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in collaboration with the armed forces of Australia, Canada, and the United States, successfully concluded the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the Western Command (WESCOM) Area of Responsibility within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone on August 8, 2024.
The two-day exercise closed at around 6 p.m. and featured a comprehensive array of naval and air assets from the participating nations. The Philippine Navy deployed the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) with an AW159 helicopter and the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16). Australia contributed a Poseidon Aircraft (P8A), while Canada deployed HMCS Montreal (FFH336) with a Sikorsky CH-148 Cyclone helicopter. The United States was represented by the USS Lake Erie (CG70) and a Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopter.
The MCA included a series of meticulously planned events aimed at enhancing interoperability and cooperation among the participating forces. These activities encompassed communication exercises (COMMEX), division tactics/officer of the watch (Divtacs/OOW) maneuvers, a photographic exercise (PHOTOEX), cross-deck landing operations, anti-submarine warfare exercises (ASW Ex), and contact reporting/maritime domain awareness (MDA).
General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the AFP, praised the exercise's success, emphasizing its vital role in strengthening regional security and fostering deeper cooperation among allied nations. "This multilateral exercise met our objectives of enhancing tactical capabilities and interoperability. The seamless coordination and execution of the planned activities highlight the strong defense relationships we share and our collective commitment to ensuring a stable and secure Indo-Pacific region."
The exercise proceeded without any significant incidents, and all objectives were met as planned, further solidifying the operational readiness and cooperation among the participating forces. The success of this MCA underscores the commitment of the Philippines and its allies to upholding international maritime security and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
