The Philippine Navy, alongside its allies from Canada and the United States, conducted the seventh Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone on February 12, 2025. This exercise, aimed at bolstering regional security, saw the participation of the Philippine Navy’s BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17) and the Royal Canadian Navy’s HMCS Ottawa (FFH-341), among other assets. The drills focused on enhancing coordination and interoperability between the participating nations, featuring a range of operational exercises such as communication checks, division tactics, photo exercises, and anti-submarine training.
General Romeo Brawner Jr., the chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), emphasized the importance of these activities in promoting regional stability and maritime security. He highlighted the strategic partnerships that not only strengthen interoperability but also foster collective security in the Indo-Pacific Region. The exercises also included contributions from the United States, which played a role in planning and monitoring the event.
During the MMCA, three Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships, an oceanographic surveillance ship, and a helicopter were observed at a distance. However, these Chinese assets did not disrupt the exercise, which proceeded smoothly from 9:23 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on the same day.
The AFP’s commitment to these multilateral exercises underscores a broader dedication to peace, stability, and security in the region. Colonel Xerxes Trinidad from the AFP’s public affairs office noted that these drills reinforce the bonds between partner nations, supporting mutual prosperity and adherence to international maritime laws as outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
This series of MMCA exercises began in April 2024, with subsequent events held throughout the year, culminating in the seventh exercise on February 12, 2025. These ongoing efforts highlight the continuous commitment of the Philippines and its allies to strengthen cooperation and ensure a secure maritime environment in the Indo-Pacific.