PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The Philippine and Australian navies recently concluded in Palawan their joint 5th Maritime Training Activity (MTA) to enhance interoperability against threats in the southern border.
The ceremony for the closing of the combined maritime training was held at the Naval Station Apolinario Jalandoon in Barangay San Miguel, Puerto Princesa City, last Oct. 15, said Naval Forces West (NFW) deputy commander for fleet operations, Capt. Carlos Sabarre.
Sabarre said Friday that the Philippine Navy (PN) is grateful for the opportunity to conduct the joint maritime exercise with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).
“We see them (RAN) as professional sailors who embody bravery, discipline, and professionalism worthy of emulation due to the fact that they belong to one of the largest and most sophisticated naval forces in the Pacific region,” he said.
Sabarre noted the conduct of bilateral patrols in southern Palawan did not only enhance the two navies’ interoperability, but also ensures they are ready to address terrorist activities and kidnap-for-ransom (KFR) groups threatening the southern borders.
In partnership with other regional navies, he said the PN will always remain vigilant and committed to protecting the peace and security of the nation’s maritime domain.
The activity also proves that the NFW does not work alone in protecting and maintaining the peace and stability in this part of the region, he added.
The combined PN-RAN MTA officially started on Sept. 24. (Celeste Anna Formoso/PNA)
