The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), together with the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), successfully conducted the 17th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) in the West Philippine Sea from July 21 to 25.

Participating Philippine assets included the BRP Antonio Luna, Philippine Navy AW109 helicopter, Philippine Air Force FA-50 fighter aircraft, TC90, an A-29B Super Tucano, a C-208B aircraft, and a Sokol Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter.

The Philippine Coast Guard also deployed BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Malabrigo in support of the activity. The USPACOM deployed the USS Santa Barbara with MH60S and P-8A. JMSDF participated with the JS Yuudachi.

Throughout the five-day activity, participating forces carried out a series of advanced maritime interoperability exercises, including Communication Exercises, Replenishment at Sea, Division Tactics, Officer of the Watch Maneuvers, Rotary Wing Deck Landing Qualifications, Photo Exercise, Vertical Replenishment/Cross-Deck Landing, and Fly-by operations.

The conduct of the 17th MMCA for 2026 underscores the enduring partnership among the partner nations in promoting peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region. It likewise reflects the AFP's continuing commitment in ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight while deterring illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive ac tivities in the West Philippine Sea. AFP Public Affairs Office