Ang Pahayagan

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) 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 activity reaffirms the 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 the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), three FA-50 fighter jets, three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, one PAF Black Hawk, and one Sokol helicopter.

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 evolution, including Division Tactics (DIVTACS), complex ship maneuvering exercises, Night Steaming in Company (NSIC), and fly by or low pass of aircraft. 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.

TOP 📸: The BRP Jose Rizal (FF150) cuts through the waves as a U.S. P-8A Poseidon performs a dynamic low pass overhead, showcasing coordinated air–surface integration during the 9th PH-US bilateral MCA. (PAF and US INDOPACOM)