The Philippine Navy’s Western Naval Command (WNC) on Saturday highlighted key operational achievements as Exercise SAMASAMA 2025 entered its fifth day, with naval units from the Philippines, the United States, Canada, and Australia showcasing high levels of coordination in joint maritime operations.

The annual bilateral and multinational exercise, running from 6 to 17 October, continues to reinforce the strategic partnership between the Philippine Navy (PN), the United States Navy (USN), and participating allied navies, aiming to strengthen interoperability, enhance maritime security, and promote a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

Under WNC’s operational control, the Navy’s Exercise Directorate Headquarters has been overseeing the execution of operations following a Pre-Sail Plan Brief on 9 October.

Full-scale exercises commenced on 10 October, involving complex drills and coordinated naval maneuvers.

During the exercise, the Naval Task Group (NTG) 44.1 executed joint operations, demonstrating advanced coordination and seamanship skills.

Meanwhile, participating vessels—BRP Antonio Luna (FF151), BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), BRP Valentin Diaz (PS117), BRP Lolinato Toong (PG902), USS Cincinnati (LCS20), and HMCS Max Bernays (AOPV432)—successfully conducted Communication Exercises (COMMEX) to validate interoperability and secure communication procedures. These naval assets also launched a combined sortie to the Sulu Sea, simulating real-world maritime operations and force integration.

Further, Helicopter NH441 completed Deck Landing Practice (DLP) on USS Cincinnati and performed Vertical Replenishment (VERTREP) with HMCS Max Bernays, enhancing air-sea coordination in operational settings.

Onshore, Naval Special Warfare Units (NSWU) 4 and 10, alongside the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) EOD, Philippine National Police (PNP) EOD, U.S. Navy, and the Australian Defence Force (ADF), participated in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Mine Countermeasures Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) at the Tidepole Compound in Puerto Princesa City.

“Through these coordinated efforts, the Philippine Navy continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and joint maritime readiness,” Acting WNC Public Affairs chief LT Juliet Saldasal said.

Saldasal added that Exercise SAMASAMA 2025 not only strengthens tactical cooperation but also reinforces the shared commitment to uphold a free, open, and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.