The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) is set to enhance its engagement in the West Philippine Sea by participating in the upcoming multilateral maritime cooperative activity (MMCA). This announcement was made by Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines, David Hartman, during a reception following the arrival of HMCS Ottawa in Manila on February 7, 2025. The ship, which received a warm welcome from the Philippine Navy, is scheduled to join the 7th Philippine-led MMCA within the country’s exclusive economic zone later this week.
Ambassador Hartman emphasized Canada’s ongoing collaboration with the Philippine Navy and other regional partners in conducting these cooperative activities. He highlighted Canada’s commitment to bolstering its diplomatic presence across the Indo-Pacific, with a particular focus on the Philippines. The previous MMCA, held just days earlier on February 5, included participation from Australia, Japan, the Philippines, and the United States.
Canada’s participation in these activities is part of a broader strategy to uphold the rules-based international order and to counter provocative actions by China in the South China Sea and West Philippine Sea. Hartman reaffirmed Canada’s stance against these actions, stating that the country will continue to voice its opposition.
The visit of HMCS Ottawa to Manila, marking its first visit of the year, underscores Canada’s commitment to the region under its Indo-Pacific strategy. During its stay, the crew engaged in professional development, training, community outreach, and friendly sports competitions with the Philippine Navy. Commander Adriano Lozer of HMCS Ottawa noted that such port visits are crucial for strengthening connections between Canadians and their counterparts in the Indo-Pacific.
HMCS Ottawa’s deployment is part of Operation HORIZON, aimed at promoting peace and stability in key global waterways. The ship, equipped with a CH-148 Cyclone maritime helicopter, carries around 240 skilled personnel, including 15 of Philippine descent. As one of the RCN’s Halifax-class frigates, it is outfitted with advanced anti-submarine, anti-surface, and anti-air warfare capabilities. The vessel’s last visit to the Philippines was in Subic Bay in 2023 for the Exercise Samasama with the Philippines and the United States.