The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in collaboration with the United States Navy, held a Maritime Cooperative Activity on  July 31, in the South China Sea, amid growing tension in the region with China.

"The activity was held inside the Philippine exclusive economic zone, in the waters west of Palawan," AFP said in a statement.

It featured the USS Mobile (LCS 26) and the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16).
The exercise included a series of events designed to enhance communication and operational coordination between the two navies.

These events comprised a communications check exercise, division tactics, officer of the watch maneuver exercise, photographic exercise, and cross deck exercise.

"The primary objective of this activity is to strengthen the interoperability and cooperative capabilities of the Philippine Navy and the United States Navy," the statement said.

By conducting these exercises, both navies aim to improve their readiness and ability to operate together in ensuring maritime security and stability in the region, AFP said.

General Romeo Brawner Jr., Chief of Staff of the AFP, emphasized the significance of such cooperative activities in maintaining regional peace and security.

"These joint exercises with our ally are crucial in enhancing our naval capabilities and ensuring that we can effectively collaborate to safeguard our maritime interests. The partnership between the Philippine Navy and the United States Navy continues to be a pillar of regional stability," he said.