The Philippine Navy’s newest and most advanced guided missile frigate, BRP Diego Silang, successfully participated in the first Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) of 2026. The exercises saw the frigate sailing alongside the USS Dewey of the United States and HMAS Toowoomba of Australia, RH Edniel Parrosa reported.
The Philippine Coast Guard vessel BRP Teresa Magbanua also joined the drills to strengthen maritime cooperation among allied forces.
The MMCA took place southeast of Bajo de Masinloc within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). This marked the first MMCA of the year and the first since the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) signed the large-scale exercise box in Bajo de Masinloc. The event is part of the AFP’s continued efforts to enhance operational readiness and ensure the country’s maritime security.
During the exercises, RH Edniel Parrosa observed two Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy ships near the exercise area. AFP officials clarified that the presence of these vessels did not interfere with the drills, which proceeded safely and according to plan.
AFP Spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla emphasized that the military remained focused on its mandate, undistracted by political controversies.
“We do not get distracted by the noise of politics. We remain to have no inclination towards any color, any political affiliation,” Padilla said, underscoring the military’s commitment to neutrality while executing its duties.
The MMCA was designed to improve interoperability among allied naval forces, strengthen collective maritime defense, and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region. According to AFP officials, such exercises also showcase the capabilities of modern Philippine warships like the BRP Diego Silang, which was launched in December 2025.
The drills highlighted the importance of continuous training and collaboration with allied navies. The AFP reiterated that exercises like the MMCA reflect the armed forces’ dedication to their mandate and readiness, even amid external political pressures surrounding the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
