PH, US, Australia join weeklong maritime activity in WPS —AFP

The Philippines, the United States, and Australia have completed a weeklong maritime activity in the West Philippine Sea (WPS) aimed at enhancing cooperation and coordination among their armed forces.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the 19th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) was held from August 19 to 25.

The activity featured a series of maritime and air operations designed to strengthen the three countries' ability to operate together in support of a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

“A one-week activity successfully enhanced maritime interoperability and operational coordination among the participating forces through a series of complex maritime and air operations designed to strengthen their capability to operate seamlessly together in support of a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific,” the AFP said.

The Philippines deployed the Philippine Navy's BRP Diego Silang (FFG-7), an AW109 helicopter, Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter aircraft, a C-208B aircraft, and a Sokol search-and-rescue helicopter. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also joined the activity through the deployment of BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701).

Meanwhile, the US deployed USS Santa Barbara (LCS-32) and P-8A Poseidon aircraft, while Australia participated with HMAS Supply (A-195), an MH-60R helicopter, and P-8A aircraft.

The following advanced maritime interoperability exercises were conducted:

• Communications Exercises (COMMEX)
• Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA)
• Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)
• Replenishment at Sea (RAS)
• Division Tactics (DIVTACS)/Officer of the Watch (OOW) Maneuvers
• Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX)
• fly-by operations

The AFP said, “the successful completion of the 19th MMCA underscores the enduring commitment of the Philippines, the United States, and Australia to strengthening defense cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and promoting peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.” —AOL, GMA News