Phl, Indonesia wrap up 37th joint border patrol in Davao

The Philippines and Indonesia on Tuesday wrapped up their 37th joint border patrol in Panacan, Davao City. 

The Eastern Mindanao Command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines has reported significant accomplishments in the recently concluded Philippines and Indonesia Coordinated Patrol this year. 

The four-leg joint patrol between the Indonesian Navy and the Philippine Navy is aimed at enhancing interoperability between the maritime officers of the two countries. 

AFP-EastMinCom spokesperson LtCo. Rosa Ma Cristina Rosete-Manuel said this year's CORPAT began from 16 to 17 March through the Sea Phase; followed by the Second Leg on 3 to 7 May in an opening ceremony in Manado City, Indonesia; and the Third Leg was concluded on 14 to 16 September. 

The Philippine Navy's BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37) and Indonesian Navy's KRI TONGKOL-813 recently concluded the fourth leg of the sea phase from 10 to 14 November which was hosted by Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.

NFEM Commander Commo. Carlos Sabarre graced the culmination on behalf of EastMinCom Commander LtGen. Greg T. Almerol as head of the Philippine contingent, while First Admiral TNI Teguh Prasetya, the Commander of Maritime Security Task Force, 2nd Fleet Command, Indonesian Navy, led the Indonesian delegates.

Prasetya said the Philippines-Indonesia joint border patrol is crucial to continuing the country's naval forces' existing ties and partnership on maritime security. 

"Once again, we have witnessed a successful CORPAT PHILINDO done by the Philippine Navy and Indonesian Navy. We ensure that the results of Coordinated Patrol will contribute to a stronger and closer partnership between the Philippines and Indonesia," Prasetya noted.

Sabarre, on the other hand, said the maritime activity would emphasize the stronger cooperation and relationship between Indonesia and the Philippines through the continuous interaction of both countries' armed forces.

"Over the course of this operation, we have witnessed the strength of our partnership, the professionalism of our forces, and the shared commitment to security and stability," he added.

This CORPAT PHILINDO has been an effective avenue to further enhance the spirit of comradeship, and mutual respect as well as strengthening our bond as neighboring countries," Sabarre continued. 

This year's CORPAT also highlighted the repatriation of six Filipinos from Indonesia to the Philippines aboard the PS-37 on 5 May as well as the interception of the fishing vessel M/B Princess Sarah, carrying 600 master cases of smuggled cigarettes southwest off Balut Island, Sarangani, Davao Occidental last 5 November.