NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Sailing Towards Stronger Ties: PH-US Kick Off First Maritime Exercise Of 2025
Photo by PFC Carmelotes/PAOAFP
The Philippines and the United States have just wrapped up their first major maritime exercise of 2025, and it was nothing short of impressive. Taking place in the West Philippine Sea, off the coast of Palawan, this two-day event (January 17-18) showcased some serious firepower and cooperation between the two nations.
Who's Who in the Exercise?
On the Philippine side, the star players were the BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) and BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17), along with two FA-50 fighter jets and some top-notch Search and Rescue (SAR) assets from the Philippine Air Force. Not to be outdone, the U.S. brought out the big guns too – the USS Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, USS Princeton, USS Sterett, an MH-60 Seahawk, a V-22 Osprey, and two F-18 Hornet aircraft.
What Went Down?
The two days were packed with action. They kicked off with a Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), followed by some slick Division Tactics maneuvers and an awesome Photo Exercise. The second day was all about Dissimilar Aircraft Combat Training, showing off some serious skills in the sky.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about cool ships and aircraft. General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, summed it up perfectly: "Each exercise like this MCA (Maritime Cooperative Activity) makes us more prepared to tackle challenges together. It's all about keeping our region peaceful and secure." It’s the fifth time the Philippines and the U.S. have done this, and with every iteration, their teamwork just gets better.
In a world where teamwork makes the dream work, this PH-US maritime exercise is a great example of how countries can come together for a common goal.
Who's Who in the Exercise?
On the Philippine side, the star players were the BRP Antonio Luna (FF151) and BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17), along with two FA-50 fighter jets and some top-notch Search and Rescue (SAR) assets from the Philippine Air Force. Not to be outdone, the U.S. brought out the big guns too – the USS Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, USS Princeton, USS Sterett, an MH-60 Seahawk, a V-22 Osprey, and two F-18 Hornet aircraft.
What Went Down?
The two days were packed with action. They kicked off with a Communications Check Exercise (COMMEX), followed by some slick Division Tactics maneuvers and an awesome Photo Exercise. The second day was all about Dissimilar Aircraft Combat Training, showing off some serious skills in the sky.
Why It Matters
This isn’t just about cool ships and aircraft. General Romeo S. Brawner Jr., AFP Chief of Staff, summed it up perfectly: "Each exercise like this MCA (Maritime Cooperative Activity) makes us more prepared to tackle challenges together. It's all about keeping our region peaceful and secure." It’s the fifth time the Philippines and the U.S. have done this, and with every iteration, their teamwork just gets better.
In a world where teamwork makes the dream work, this PH-US maritime exercise is a great example of how countries can come together for a common goal.
Jan 20, 2025
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