CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) successfully conducted the 9th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on December 9 to 10, underscoring the two nations’ shared commitment to maintaining stability, security, and the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.
The MCA provided both forces an opportunity to enhance interoperability, deepen operational cooperation, and strengthen joint capabilities amid evolving security challenges. This activity reaffirms the enduring defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States, maintaining the vital role in safeguarding regional peace and ensuring open and secure maritime domains.
During the exercise, the AFP deployed a robust set of assets, including the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), three FA-50 fighter jets, three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, one PAF Black Hawk, and one Sokol helicopter. These assets demonstrated the Philippines’ expanding operational readiness and its growing ability to integrate with allied forces in complex maritime scenarios.
USINDOPACOM, for its part, utilized the USS Rafael Peralta (DDG-115), MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, showcasing advanced capabilities in surveillance, naval warfare, and joint maritime operations.
Both forces successfully executed a series of cooperative evolutions, including Division Tactics (DIVTACS), complex ship maneuvering exercises, Night Steaming in Company (NSIC), and fly by or low pass of aircrafts. An "intercept and escort" exercise of US P-8A by the PAF's FA50 was also conducted. These activities sharpened coordination, improved communication procedures, and enhanced the ability of both militaries to operate seamlessly in a dynamic maritime environment.
The Philippine–U.S. Bilateral MCA stands as a testament to the strong and growing alliance between the two nations. It reinforces shared commitments to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and a peaceful, stable Indo-Pacific region where the rights of all nations—big or small—are upheld.
Photos and Videos by: FF150, PAF and US INDOPACOM
