Philippine Navy Joins Indonesian-Led Naval Drills with BRP Ramon Alcaraz

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The Philippine Navy has announced the deployment of its offshore patrol vessel, BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), to participate in the fifth Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) in Bali, Indonesia, scheduled from February 15 to 22. During a press briefing, PN spokesperson Capt. John Percie Alcos revealed that the Philippine Marine Ready Force will dispatch a naval task group, including BRP Ramon Alcaraz, to engage in a variety of surface and non-warfare related activities during the exercise. MNEK, a significant regional event, aims to strengthen relationships and cooperation among participating countries in maritime security operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster response efforts. Capt. Alcos emphasized that the exercise provides an opportunity for the Philippine Navy to enhance its connections with regional and global partners, thereby promoting maritime security through joint operations and dialogues. Furthermore, the PN’s involvement in the international fleet review and maritime security symposium at MNEK underscores its dedication to fostering peace and stability in the region. The Indonesian Navy’s MNEK, held annually between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, first commenced in 2014 in Batam City, Indonesia.