CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- Building on earlier engagements this month, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM), conducted the 15th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) from 20 to 26 February 2026 in the West Philippine Sea.
Philippine assets included the navy's BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) with an embarked AW159 helicopter, along with the Philippine Air Force's aircrafts such as FA-50 fighter jets, C-208B, A-29 Super Tucano and a Sokol Search and Rescue helicopter. The Philippine Coast Guard deployed BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV 8301), demonstrating a whole-of-nation approach to protecting the country’s maritime domain.
Japan contributed a P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft, while the United States deployed USS Dewey (DDG 105) and a P-8A Poseidon. The integration of these platforms showcased the three nations’ ability to operate seamlessly together in complex maritime environments, highlighting the growing depth of maritime cooperation.
Exercise serials included Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA), Replenishment at Sea (RAS), Friendly Flight/Joint Air Patrol, Fly-bys, Division Tactics/Officer of the Watch Maneuvers, Photo Exercise, and an Anti-Submarine Warfare Exercise. A live-fire Gunnery Exercise (GUNNEX) was also conducted by BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), to validate targeting accuracy and combat readiness under realistic maritime conditions, before concluding with a Hotwash and Finish Exercise (FINEX) to evaluate performance and capture lessons for future operations.
This second MMCA of the year underscores the sustained commitment of partner forces to enhance interoperability, reinforce maritime security, and improve Maritime Domain Awareness in the region.///
Photos and Videos by: MAJ TOBIAS PA, A1C Ted Castro, Edward Bungubung and AFPAO
