Navy deploys nearly all available Metro Manila assets for ASEAN summit

The Philippine Navy is deploying nearly all its naval assets stationed in Metro Manila to help secure the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits from 16 to 18 November 2026.

Navy spokesperson Capt. Marrisa Martinez disclosed the deployment Friday during a change-of-command and retirement ceremony at Naval Station Jose Andrada in Manila.

"All our naval assets particulary those deployed here in the naval, in the national capital region, will be deployed and will ensure the security and the protection not only of the President and not only the delegates of the ASEAN, but they would make sure of the success of the activity. They are there to ensure the security and protection of the littorals and the maritime domain," Martinez said.

Among the vessels assigned to the security operations are the Navy's recently acquired offshore patrol vessels, BRP Raja Sulaiman and BRP Raja Lakandula.

"The two ships you see at the back are the offshore patrol vessels of the Philippine Navy," Martinez said.

"They were the recently acquired new assets of the Philippine Navy and they will be part of the ships that will be deployed or employed during the ASEAN, which will be conducted this week," she added.

Martinez said naval security operations would focus on Manila Bay and surrounding maritime approaches, particularly routes from the west, north and south.

The Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City will serve as a major venue for summit activities.

"Yung mga sea approaches, yung mga key maritime areas, sa approaches ng Manila Bay, yung maritime approaches dito sa west, sa north, and sa south po usually, ang priority areas ng ating pagpapatrol po. Besides that, po, we will also be employing our marines and naval SEALs or our Naval Special Operations Group or force, to include also our air warfare force. So, it is not only ships but it also includes the different forces also. SEALs, the Special Warfare Operations Group, marines and air capabilities," Martinez explained.

The security deployment will involve not only Navy vessels but also Marine units, naval special operations personnel and naval aviation assets.

These forces will help monitor maritime approaches, reinforce security around key coastal areas and protect summit participants.

The Navy's deployment forms part of security preparations for the regional meetings, which will bring ASEAN leaders and other delegates to Metro Manila.