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Komodo naval exercises concluded

Lade Jean Kabagani

The Philippine Navy joined its counterparts from 31 nations in wrapping up the 5th Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) 2025 in the waters off Bali, Indonesia.

Navy Public Affairs Officer Lt. Ross Victor San Luis said the culmination of the multilateral exercise embodied the participating nations’ unified determination to protect their respective maritime interests.

“This symbolic moment underscored the strong partnerships forged throughout the exercise and reaffirmed the shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region,” San Luis told reporters in a statement on Sunday.

The participating navies attended the opening ceremony of the Komodo Exercise on 16 February at the Port of Benoa, Bali, Indonesia.

The Naval Task Group 84 aboard the BRP Ramon Alcaraz participated in the field training exercises.

“Their leadership and the active engagement of the ship’s officers and crew underscored the nation’s commitment to multilateral maritime collaboration,” San Luis stressed.

During the maritime activities, the participating navies performed a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), a Search-and-Rescue Exercise (SAREX), and a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime security cooperation.

San Luis said the PHOTOEX showcased the unity of participating navies, as vessels maneuvered in coordinated formations, “capturing the spirit of multinational cooperation through a dynamic display of seamanship with naval and aerial precision.”

The SAREX, on the other hand, tested the readiness and capabilities of naval forces in conducting swift and effective search and rescue operations.