Photo By: Philippine Coast Guard
SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Philippines and the United States further strengthened their maritime security partnership after conducting a two-day Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity in the waters off Bajo de Masinloc, Zambales, on June 27–28, 2026.
The joint exercise brought together personnel and vessels from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), the United States Coast Guard (USCG), and the Philippine Navy (PN) to enhance interoperability and improve coordination in responding to maritime challenges.
Participating assets included the USCG cutters USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC-1145) and USCGC Charles Moulthrope (WPC-1141), the Philippine Navy frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FF-151), and the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) and BRP Capones (MRRV-4404).
Photo By: Philippine Coast Guard
Throughout the exercise, participating crews conducted Division Tactics (DIVTACS) and Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) drills designed to sharpen seamanship, improve operational coordination, and enhance readiness for humanitarian assistance and maritime emergency response.
The maritime activity reflects the longstanding defense cooperation between the Philippines and the United States and their shared commitment to maintaining a secure, stable, and rules-based maritime environment in the Indo-Pacific.
By strengthening operational coordination and maritime domain awareness, both countries continue to promote freedom of navigation, regional cooperation, and collective efforts to ensure peace and security at sea. (Philippine Coast Guard)