The naval forces of the Philippines, United States, Japan, and Canada held the second multilateral maritime cooperative activity in the West Philippine Sea on Sunday, June 16.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines said that the exercise 'highlights the ongoing commitment of the AFP and its allies to maintain peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region through enhanced cooperation and interoperability'.
"The multilateral maritime cooperative activity with the navies of the United States and Canada, and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force underscores our commitment to regional stability and security," said AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. in a statement.
"This collaboration enhances our capabilities and interoperability with allies and partners, enabling us to effectively address common maritime challenges and demonstrate our shared dedication to upholding international law and the rules-based international order, as well as ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific," Brawner added.
AFP deployed Gregorio del Pilar-class patrol ship BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17) to participate in the exercise alongside the U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114), the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Murasame-class destroyer JS Kirisame (DD-104), and the Royal Canadian Navy Halifax-class frigate HMCS Montreal.
The naval forces of the Philippines, United States, Australia, and Japan took part in the first multilateral maritime cooperative activity held last April in the West Philippine Sea.
