BY AFP

The Philippines and the United States conducted a Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in Manila Bay and waters off Mariveles, Bataan.

In a statement released on Saturday, the AFP said the activity was participated by the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

“The activity dubbed as Bilateral MCA 26-3.1 was aimed at enhancing interoperability among participating forces in support of maritime security and sustaining maritime response in the Philippine Maritime Zones,” said the AFP.

Two Philippine Air Force A-29B Super Tucano aircraft fly above USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) during the Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity 26-3.1 on March 20, 2026. (Photo by Edward Bungubung/PAOAFP)

Participating Philippine assets included the BRP Antonio Luna (FFG15), two (2) A-29B Super Tucano, one (1) C-208B aircraft and one (1) Sokol Search and Rescue Aircraft, as well as the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV 8301) from the Philippine Coast Guard.

The United States, meanwhile, deployed the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC-19) for the activity.

The AFP said that the said units carried out a series of exercises, including communications check and a photo exercise.

“The successful conduct of the MCA reflected the continuing commitment of the Philippines and the United States to strengthen coordination and cooperation in promoting regional maritime security, stability, and adherence to international law,” said the AFP.

“The AFP remains committed to building strong defense partnerships and enhancing its capability to safeguard the country’s maritime interests and uphold a rules-based international order,” it added.