The Philippines, the United States, and Japan have completed their 8th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea, extending as far as the east of Bajo de Masinloc.
According to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa, for the first time, the media—including DZRH News—joined the Philippine Navy’s flagship warship, BRP Jose Rizal, to observe the military drills of allied nations at sea.
The MMCA was conducted despite the illegal presence and apparent surveillance of a Chinese warship within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone. At the very start of the voyage, a People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA-N) vessel, identified by bow number 574, was already visible.
Cmdr. Irvin Robles, Commanding Officer of BRP Jose Rizal, reported that a Chinese military vessel tried to approach, but it withdrew after being radioed by the Philippine Navy.
"There was a time, they actually attempted to maneuver closely. Again, we challenged them and we asked of their intent and then they alter their course," Cmdr. Robles stated.
Moreover, the communication exercises, personnel exchanges, photo exercises, flight operations, and division tactics involving assets from Manila, Washington, and Tokyo were carried out seamlessly.
In addition to the BRP Jose Rizal, the AFP also deployed an AW-109 helicopter and a C-90 plane from the Philippine Air Force for the drills. Meanwhile, the United States deployed the USS Shoup destroyer.
Japan, for its part, sent its warship, the JS Noshiro, which had recently made a port call in Subic.
Quartermaster Chief (QMC) Mark Rufo, who is based in the U.S. and has roots in Pangasinan, was impressed by the beauty and modern design of the Philippines' warship.
The MMCA took place on the same day that U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the country.
For the United States, this serves as a 'strong message'—a firm indication that the alliance is ready to support each other.
"This shows a strong message of our allies' ship with the Philippines and Japanese, and that we are strong allies and we support each other," US Navy Lt. Alexander Horvath stated.
