Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros has expressed her support for the Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) held on February 5, involving the Philippines, the United States, Australia, and Japan. The event, which took place in Manila, was highlighted by Hontiveros as a crucial step towards ensuring a ‘free, open, and secure’ Indo-Pacific region. She emphasized that the participation of multiple nations in the exercise demonstrates the Philippines’ solidarity with allies in maintaining regional stability.
Hontiveros pointed out that the MMCA serves as a strong message against China’s territorial assertions in the West Philippine Sea, which she labeled as ‘baseless and in direct violation’ of international maritime law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). She also praised the recently enacted Philippine Maritime Zones Act, which aligns with international law and the 2016 Arbitral Ruling that rejected China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea.
The senator stressed the importance of the Maritime Zones Act in clearly defining the West Philippine Sea as part of the Philippines’ jurisdiction, countering any claims by Beijing or other regional powers. The joint exercise occurs amidst escalating tensions in the disputed waters, where Chinese ships have been accused of aggressive actions against Philippine vessels.
Hontiveros has consistently advocated for the Philippines to assert its maritime rights and enhance partnerships with nations sharing similar views to challenge Beijing’s expansionist policies. General Romeo Brawner Jr., the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, stated that the MMCA reflects the collective dedication of the involved countries to uphold regional and international cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Brawner added that the MMCA is designed to improve the interoperability of the participating armed forces through joint maritime and aerial operations. Although specific details about the exercise’s timing, location, and participating units were not disclosed, Brawner confirmed that the activity adhered to international law, respecting navigation safety and the rights of other nations.