CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in partnership with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), concluded the 11th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) held from September 12 to 13, 2025 in the West Philippine Sea. The joint activity took place in the waters off Magalawa Island, Palauig to Silanguin Island, San Antonio, Zambales.
This marks the second MMCA conducted in September, following the successful completion of the 10th iteration on September 3, 2025. These continuous engagements underscore the sustained commitment of the three nations to enhancing maritime cooperation, promoting regional security, and supporting a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific.
For the 11th MMCA, the AFP deployed BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), an AW109 anti-submarine helicopter, a Philippine Air Force search and rescue aircraft, a C-208B Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft, and four FA-50 fighter jets. The United States contributed the USS John Finn (DDG113), a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, and two MH 60-R helicopters. Meanwhile, Japan deployed JS Osumi (LST4001), demonstrating its amphibious capabilities and operational readiness in combined maritime operations.
Key components of the 11th MMCA included a Communications Check Exercise to ensure effective coordination; Maritime Domain Awareness activities; an Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Exercise; a Cross-Deck Landing Exercise; and Naval Surface Interdiction and Clearance (NSIC). The exercise also featured Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch maneuvers, a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), Passing Exercise (PASSEX), Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), and a Final Exercise (FINEX).
The successful conduct of the MMCA not only enhances the interoperability of the participating forces but also reaffirms the Philippines’ steadfast commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and upholding peace and security in the region.
