Bajo de Masinloc, WPS — A Philippine Navy AW109 helicopter became the first military aircraft to land on a Philippine Coast Guard  (PCG) vessel Monday, marking a milestone in inter-agency maritime cooperation.

The landing occurred during deck qualification exercises as part of the 11th Maritime Cooperative Activity between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US Indo-Pacific Command. The maneuvers took place within the country’s exclusive economic zone in the West Philippine Sea.

BRP Gabriela Silang, the Coast Guard’s second-largest and most modern vessel, served as the landing platform. It was joined in the exercise by the Navy’s BRP Antonio Luna and BRP Jose Rizal, along with the US Navy destroyer USS John Finn.

“The first landing of a Philippine Navy aircraft on a Philippine Coast Guard vessel is historic,” said Capt. George Maganto, commanding officer of the Gabriela Silang. “It marks a significant milestone in joint operational capability and reflects the growing trust and coordination between the AFP and the PCG.”

Maganto cited that the operation required meticulous planning to manage weather conditions and safety coordination in a dynamic maritime environment.

Capt. Jennifer Monforte, commanding officer of the Antonio Luna, said the ability to land helicopters on various ships enhances the country’s reach for search and rescue, vertical replenishment, and disaster response.

She added that using aircraft during patrols allows the fleet to extend its operational horizon significantly.

This exercise marks the third time the Coast Guard has joined the bilateral maritime drills between the Philippines and the United States. Similar collaborations occurred in December 2025 involving the BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP San Agustin.

Commanding officers from both services said the exercise underscores a deepening alliance focused on addressing evolving security challenges in the region.