No ‘significant incidents’ during PH, US, Australia, Canada exercises

Metro Manila, Philippines— There were no untoward incidents during the multilateral maritime cooperative activity by the Philippines and three of its allies in the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) on Aug. 7-8, the military said.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted joint exercises with counterparts from Australia, Canada, and the United States in the Western Command (WESCOM) area of responsibility in the country’s waters.

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 in the two-day air and maritime exercises, the military said.

The activity aimed to strengthen interoperability and cooperation among the participating forces.

The armed forces from the four countries conducted communication exercises, division tactics/officer of the watch maneuvers, a photographic exercise, cross-deck landing operations, anti-submarine warfare exercises, and contact reporting/maritime domain awareness, the AFP said.

“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,” said AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner in a statement.

The AFP added that the exercises did not encounter significant incidents and met all objectives.

“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,” it added.