The Philippine Navy has reinforced maritime security across Eastern Mindanao as BRP Alberto Navarette (PC 394) carried out sustained Littoral Combat Patrol Operations from 16 to 23 December, covering several key coastal and maritime areas.

Operating under the control of Joint Task Force (JTF) Sinaya, the patrols spanned the waters surrounding Samal Island in the Davao Gulf, Sarangani Bay, and the coastal areas of Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum in Sarangani Province. 

The naval vessel also monitored Macajalar Bay, Gingoog Bay, Butuan Bay, and nearby sea approaches, ensuring a strong naval presence along vital sea lanes in Eastern Mindanao.

According to the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), the operations were aimed at maintaining maritime security, ensuring the safety of navigation, and deterring potential maritime threats. 

The intensified patrols were particularly significant during the holiday season, a period marked by increased sea travel and fishing activities.

In addition to security operations, BRP Alberto Navarette conducted a humanitarian and community engagement activity known as “Regalong Handog ng Hukbong Dagat” or Gift Giving at Sea. 

Sailors distributed gifts to local fisherfolk encountered during patrols, fostering goodwill and strengthening civil-military relations with coastal communities.

NFEM Commander Commodore Ireneo Battung emphasized that the combined security and humanitarian efforts underscore the Philippine Navy’s dual role of protecting the country’s maritime domain while supporting and engaging with communities that depend on the sea for their livelihood.

“This initiative was conducted in the spirit of the Yuletide season and aimed to help strengthen civil-military relations with local fisherfolk encountered during patrol operations,” he said in a statement Friday.

Battung added that the weeklong operation highlights the Philippine Navy’s continuing commitment to safeguarding Eastern Mindanao’s waters and promoting peace, stability, and cooperation across the region’s coastal areas.