SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — Indian naval ships INS Sahyadri and INS Kulish arrived at Subic Bay to participate in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity, the India Navy said.

The activity brings together maritime forces from ASEAN member states and eight partner countries, known as the “Plus” countries, for professional exchanges and operational engagements aimed at improving interoperability and cooperation at sea.

India’s participation is part of the Indian Navy’s broader maritime engagement in the region and is aligned with the government’s Act East Policy and its MAHASAGAR vision.

The deployment will provide opportunities for Indian naval personnel to interact with other participating maritime forces and exchange views on common maritime challenges.

The ships’ visit also comes as India and the Philippines deepen their bilateral defense and maritime ties. The two countries elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership in August 2025.

Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio highlighted the strengthening of bilateral ties during a speech Sept. 15 at the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Indian Council of World Affairs.

Ignacio said India-Philippines relations had intensified significantly over the past decade, culminating in the strategic partnership. He noted that the countries have maintained diplomatic relations for 77 years.

The ambassador also described India as a trusted partner for the Philippines, particularly in the maritime domain. He cited India’s assistance to Filipino seafarers in the Indian Ocean during recent periods of uncertainty as an example of the countries’ cooperation.

The visit by Sahyadri and Kulish is expected to provide further opportunities for professional exchanges between the Indian and Philippine navies and other participating maritime forces.

TOP 📸 || The INS Kulish of the Indian Navy moored at the Navy Operation Base-Subic in Zambales (Photo courtesy of Indian Navy)