10th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity Concludes in West Philippine Sea

The 10th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) successfully concluded on September 3, 2025, with naval and air forces from the Philippines, Australia, Canada, and the United States engaging in coordinated operations within the West Philippine Sea. The exercise, held off the waters of Zambales from September 2 to 3, 2025, demonstrated a strengthened commitment to regional maritime security and stability.

This significant undertaking involved a comprehensive array of assets. The Philippine Navy deployed the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), supported by its AW159 "Wildcat" anti-submarine helicopter. The Philippine Air Force contributed a W-3A "Sokol" search-and-rescue helicopter and a C-208B surveillance platform. Australia participated with its HMAS Brisbane (DDG-41) and a P-8A "Poseidon" maritime patrol aircraft. Canada's contribution included the HMCS Ville de Québec (FFH332) and its CH-148 "Cyclone" helicopter. The United States was represented by a P-8A maritime patrol aircraft from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

The core of the 10th MMCA involved several key activities designed to enhance interoperability and shared practices. These included a photo exercise to visually represent the unity of the participating navies, a vertical replenishment to test at-sea logistics and resupply capabilities, and a personnel exchange that facilitated the sharing of best practices between Australian and Philippine sailors. A critical component was the coordinated anti-submarine warfare exercise, aimed at improving the detection and tracking of underwater threats, followed by a passing exercise to underscore the seamless coordination and interoperability among the forces.

AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. emphasized the enduring significance of these collaborative efforts, stating, "The 10th MMCA reaffirms our collective resolve to protect our seas and uphold a rules-based international order. We will continue to build on this foundation of trust, proving that we are indeed stronger together." The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) highlighted that the exercise underscores the four nations' robust defense partnership and their shared dedication to advancing maritime security.

The MMCA series, which commenced in April 2024, represents a sustained effort in multilateral maritime cooperation. This activity followed closely on the heels of Exercise 'ALON,' another significant multilateral exercise involving the Philippines, Australia, and Canada, underscoring a strategic momentum in bolstering regional defense ties. The exercises are conducted within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, reinforcing the commitment to upholding international maritime law and promoting freedom of navigation. Chinese warships were observed shadowing the drills, prompting the Philippine Navy to challenge their presence.