25-06-2025
PCG strengthens regional maritime ties with Japan, US in trilateral exercise
The Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) docks at Pier 13 in Port Area, Manila on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, after participating in the 2nd Trilateral Maritime Exercise. DANNY PATA
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has reaffirmed its commitment to regional maritime safety and security through the successful completion of a joint trilateral maritime exercise with the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and the US Coast Guard (USCG) in Kagoshima, Japan.
The PCG vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) arrived at the Port of Manila on Wednesday morning following its participation in the 2nd Trilateral Maritime Exercise which had drills that aimed to strengthen cooperation among allied maritime forces in the Indo-Pacific.
The joint exercise, held in alignment with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., featured several key operations, including a communication exercise (COMMEX), search and rescue exercise (SAREX), fire fighting exercise (FFEX), photo exercise (PHOTOEX), and exercise on transfer of personnel.
Welcoming the 123-member Coast Guard delegation was Rear Admiral Hostillo Arturo Cornelio, PCG deputy commandant for administration, who represented PCG Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil L. Gavan.
'This trilateral exercise is a demonstration of solidarity and shared commitment among partner nations. Through activities like these, we not only enhance our capabilities but also reinforce trust and understanding between our Coast Guards,' the PCG said in a statement.
The joint maritime drills emphasized interoperability, allowing the three nations to simulate coordinated responses to maritime emergencies and natural disasters. Beyond tactical readiness, the exercise also provided an avenue for exchanging best practices, improving operational coordination, and reinforcing the shared goal of maintaining safety, security, and stability across Indo-Pacific waters.
The initiative underscores the Philippines' strategic focus on maritime cooperation amid growing regional challenges, particularly in contested waters. It follows a series of similar engagements with regional and global allies, affirming the country's resolve to uphold rules-based order and freedom of navigation.
The PCG has expressed gratitude to both Japan and the United States for their continued support and partnership, noting that future collaborative efforts are underway to sustain momentum and deepen maritime ties. —Sherylin Untalan/KG, GMA Integrated News
