The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Monday announced the successful completion of the fifth Philippines-United States Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) for 2026 in the West Philippine Sea.

The exercise, conducted from 27 to 28 June with the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM), reaffirmed the two countries' commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation and regional security.

The Philippines deployed the BRP Antonio Luna (FFG-15), an AW109 helicopter, and Philippine Coast Guard vessels BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) and BRP Capones (MRRV-4404).

The United States participated with the USCGC Charles Moulthrope (WPC-1141) and USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC-1145).

During the two-day exercise, participating forces conducted communication exercises, division tactics and officer-of-the-watch maneuvers, photo exercises, search and rescue drills, and maritime domain awareness activities.

The AFP said the latest MCA highlights the enduring Philippines-United States alliance and both countries' continued efforts to enhance maritime domain awareness, improve operational interoperability, and support a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.