25-4-2024 (MANILA) The seas off Puerto Princesa City, Palawan witnessed the commencement of the multilateral maritime exercise (MME) for Balikatan Exercises 2024, as naval vessels from the Philippines, the United States, and France set sail on Thursday.
Led by the Philippine Navy’s BRP Davao del Sur (LD-602) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), alongside the French Navy’s Vendemiaire, the flotilla departed at 9 a.m., followed by the United States Navy’s USS Harpers Ferry around noon, informed Captain Ariel Coloma, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Philippines Western Command.
This marks the first time the activity has ventured into the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea, indicating the expanding scope of the annual bilateral exercise between Manila and Washington.
The exercise encompasses various drills, including division tactics, gunnery exercises, and maritime search and rescue operations, extending from the eastern coast of Palawan up to Mindoro Strait and into the West Philippine Sea.
Running until April 29, the MME will then see participating ships proceeding to their respective maritime commitments, with BRP Davao del Sur committed to amphibious assault activities on April 30, while BRP Ramon Alcaraz and FS Vendemiaire will engage in bilateral sail operations. USS Harpers Ferry will undertake independent operations thereafter.
While not part of Balikatan, the bilateral sail involving BRP Ramon Alcaraz and the French frigate Vendemiaire underscores the importance of enhancing interoperability and strengthening capacities among participating nations.
Beyond bolstering defense capabilities and reaffirming operational doctrines, Balikatan serves as a platform for seamless collaboration in addressing shared security challenges and responding effectively to unforeseen scenarios, including maritime disasters.
Addressing concerns about potential interference, particularly from China, during the exercise, Coloma emphasized the adherence to established protocols and readiness to implement contingency measures if necessary. Despite the presence of Chinese maritime militia vessels (CMMVs) in the West Philippine Sea, Philippine and American forces remain committed to upholding freedom of navigation and ensuring stability in the region, in accordance with international law and norms.
