The Philippine Navy joined its counterparts from 31 nations in wrapping up the 5th Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) 2025 in the waters off Bali, Indonesia.

Navy Public Affairs Officer Lt. Ross Victor San Luis said the multilateral exercise's culmination, held on 22 February, embodied the participating nations' unified determination to protect their respective maritime interests.

“This symbolic moment underscored the strong partnerships forged throughout the exercise and reaffirmed the shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” San Luis told reporters in a statement on Sunday.

These participating navies attended the opening ceremony of the Komodo Exercise on February 16 at the Port of Benoa, Bali, Indonesia.

The Naval Task Group 84 aboard the BRP Ramon Alcaraz participated in the field training exercises.

“Their leadership and the active engagement of the ship’s officers and crew underscored the nation’s commitment to multilateral maritime collaboration,” San Luis stressed. 

During the maritime activities, the participating navies performed a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), a Search-and-Rescue Exercise (SAREX), and a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime security cooperation.

San Luis said the PHOTOEX showcased the unity of participating navies, as vessels maneuvered in coordinated formations, “capturing the spirit of multinational cooperation through a dynamic display of seamanship with naval and aerial precision.”

The SAREX, on the other hand, tested the readiness and capabilities of naval forces in conducting swift and effective search and rescue operations.

San Luis noted all participating naval vessels actively simulated rescue missions, demonstrating a high level of coordination and interoperability in responding to maritime emergencies.

“As a fitting conclusion to MNEK 2025, the participating vessels conducted the PASSEX, a traditional naval practice where ships sail in formation as a gesture of camaraderie and goodwill before departing,” he added.