Metro Manila, Philippines— New Zealand is the latest country to take part in the multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in Philippine waters, alongside the Philippines, Australia, Japan, and the United States today, Sept. 28.
Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said the multilateral exercises are being held within the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
According to the AFP, the exercises are designed to demonstrate “a collective commitment to strengthening regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.” The event will involve naval and air force units from the participating nations.
“The activity will be conducted in a manner consistent with international law, ensuring the safety of navigation and respecting the rights and interests of other states,” the AFP statement added.
Meanwhile, China announced that its military’s Southern Theater Command will deploy air and sea forces to conduct drills and patrols in disputed areas of the South China Sea, particularly near Scarborough Shoal.
This marks the fourth MMCA. The first was held in April last year, with participation from the Philippines, the US, Japan, and Australia. The second round took place two months later, with Canada joining.
The most recent multilateral patrol was conducted this past April, where participating countries carried out communications exercises, division tactics, officer-of-the-watch maneuvers, and a photo exercise.
