The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has affirmed its strong commitment to maritime security and rules-based international order during the 6th Philippines-United States (U.S.) Bilateral Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) with the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, today, 20 May 2025.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Western Command (WESCOM) also served as one of the key partners in the said capacity-building initiative.

Under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., the PCG maintains diplomatic relations with the U.S. and other allied countries that support its mission to protect lives and properties at sea, as well as uphold a peaceful and law-abiding Philippine maritime domain.

The PCG deployed BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702), BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403), and PCG Islander Aircraft 251, while the AFP WESCOM sent PS-16, PG-905, and AW109 air asset, to join USCGC Stratton (WMSL-752) in a maritime exercise in the vicinity waters of Occidental Mindoro.

Covering an operational area of 572.90 square nautical miles, the 6th PHL-U.S. Bilateral MCA simulated real-world scenarios through four primary exercises:

1) Communication Exercise (COMMEX): Testing seamless inter-agency maritime coordination;

2) Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX): Demonstrating joint life-saving response capabilities;

3) Division Tactics (DIVTACS): Ensuring organized, professional maneuvering among combined assets; and

4) Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX): Capturing unified maritime presence and interoperability in action.

According to Coast Guard District Palawan (CGDPAL) Commander, Commodore Weniel Azcuna PCG, this initiative underscored the enduring alliance and shared commitment of the Philippines and the U.S. to uphold maritime security, maritime safety, and a rules-based international order.

“We conducted operations with transparency, professionalism, and humanitarian intent. This exercise is about ensuring readiness, saving lives, and supporting our shared maritime responsibilities because the Filipino nation deserves our service rooted in law, discipline, and respect for human life,” Commodore Azcuna furthered.

After the joint maritime exercise, BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) escorted USCGC Stratton (WMSL-752) to the vicinity waters of Burgos, Ilocos Sur, as part of the PCG’s role in cooperative maritime presence and operational partnership.