Philippine and American forces continue to strengthen their interoperability through joint maritime activities in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), amid what President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. described as a “new phase of escalation” in the disputed waters.
The latest activity was the 16th bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command, according to a report by RH Edniel Parrosa.
The activity aimed to uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific while enhancing interoperability between the two allied forces.
Lt. Commander Bryan Magura, executive officer of the BRP Miguel Malvar, said the MCA also helps ensure the military remains prepared for possible developments in the region.
“We fully support yung pronouncement ng ating President. And sa Armed Forces of the Philippines, we continue to perform our job professionally and in accordance with the local laws and international laws,” Magura said.
“We always prepare for any eventualities with guidance from the national leadership and the chain of command,” he added.
In a separate interview with defense reporters, Defense Secretary Gilberto Tesoro Jr. also acknowledged an increase in aggression in the country’s maritime domain.
His remarks followed Marcos’ expression of concern over the reported obstruction by Chinese personnel of a medical evacuation involving a Filipino soldier at Ayungin Shoal.
Watch the full report below:
