DAVAO CITY —  The Philippine Navy on Thursday spearheaded the Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2023-02 at the Mati Port which aims to enhance synergy and test the inter-operability between various maritime security agencies in the government.

The Navy said that collective efforts of these agencies ensured a comprehensive approach to maintaining maritime security and protecting the region's waterways.

City Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat, Provincial Governor Nino Uy Jr., and students from the Mayor Santiago Garcia Memorial School and Mayor Luisito G. Rabat School were among the attendees of the exercise.

Their presence showcased the commitment of local authorities and the importance of educating young minds about the significance of safeguarding the coastal areas.

"I hope it does not happen in real life. I just hope you continue practicing and improving your skills on defending. I would not mind spending my taxes on you guys," said Rabat after the simulation exercise.

She also expressed her gratitude to the different agencies and called them as "the Defenders of the Republic."

The Navy, on the other hand, stressed that one of the primary goals of the exercise was to test the inter-agency coordination and response time in addressing maritime threats and by simulating a realistic and challenging scenario, agencies were able to assess their readiness and identify any gaps that need to be addressed.

"Such exercises are crucial in maintaining the security and stability of our waters, safeguarding the region's economic interests, and protecting the lives of our citizens," Rabat said.

The highlight of the exercise was a simulation demo of members of the New People's Army attempting to smuggle weapons in Davao Oriental and the insurgents — consisting of former weakened Guerilla Front 18 members — aimed to utilize these weapons for their armed cause.

The mock scenario allowed participating agencies to showcase their capabilities, coordination, and response strategies in preventing such dangerous activities from taking place.