The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has just concluded the 7th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) with its counterparts from the United States and Canada on 12 February.

In a Viber message to the DAILY TRIBUNE on Thursday, AFP Public Affairs Chief Col. Xerxes Trinidad said that three Chinese gray ships were spotted during the MMCA. These warships are operated by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy.

He added that China also deployed an oceanographic surveillance ship and a helicopter, which were monitored from a distance outside the operational area of the MMCA participants.

“The safety of participating countries during the conduct of the exercise is important,” Trinidad said.

He noted that the maritime exercise “proceeded as planned” despite China’s presence.

“Established and agreed-upon protocols were observed, and all participants had their respective Rules of Engagement (ROEs) for any adverse situation. The monitored PLAN and other assets did not interfere during the 7th MMCA,” Trinidad said.

The exercise was conducted within the Northern Luzon Command (NOLCOM) Joint Operational Area.

NOLCOM, through Naval Forces Northern Luzon, deployed BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS17) and Beechcraft King Air (NV394) during the MMCA.

The Philippine vessels joined assets from the US and Canada in simulating division tactics, anti-submarine warfare, and communication exercises — all designed to improve operational readiness.

Meanwhile, AFP Chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. said they are “looking forward" to conducting more maritime activities and joint sails with other countries such as Italy, the United Kingdom, and France.

“Slowly, some countries, including those from Europe, are expressing interest in our country, and this is a good sign because it means that, again, we share interests and have common objectives,” he added.

NOLCOM Public Information Chief Maj. Anthony Pueblas said the MMCA initiative supports the AFP’s efforts “to safeguard the West Philippine Sea and maintain maritime domain awareness.”

“The activity aimed to strengthen coordination, improve cooperation, and enhance maritime security among participating nations,” he added.

He also emphasized that the MMCA “reflects the importance of international cooperation in ensuring peace, stability, and adherence to the 2016 arbitral ruling under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).”