PH, Australia launch 5th Combined Maritime Security Activity

CALARIAN, ZAMBOANGA CITY (September 25, 2018)– The Philippine Navy through Naval Forces Western Mindanao under the operational control of Western Mindanao Command marked the start of the 5th Maritime Security Activity through an Arrival Ceremony held at Zamboanga City Pier, Zamboanga City, September 24,2018, Ph Navy official said.

Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina, Commander, Naval Forces Western Mindanao disclosed that the arrival of the Royal Australian Navy vessel - HMAS LAUNCESTON highlights the start of the 5th Combined PN-RAN Maritime Security Activity, a 10-day engagement starting Monday, September 24 to October 4, 2018.

Rear Admira Medina said that the activity includes maritime patrols in the waters of NFWM AOR comprising the waters of Zamboanga Peninsula, Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi and drills aboard ship for the enhancement of capabilities and readiness of crew onboard participating vessels.

Medina added that initially, NFWM will be utilizing BRP General Mariano Alvarez (PS38) and HMAS Launceston for PN-RAN.

Likewise, Medina said that these continuous engagements with other regional navies are part of the anti-piracy and anti-terrorism campaign of the government, which help curb the security threats that are affecting the Islands of Mindanao, which is also a sign that both countries share a strong relationship in matters of security through this activity.

With this, Medina explained that the Philippine Navy, through the Fleet Marine Team of Naval Forces Western Mindanao, assured the Filipino People, particularly of the surrounding communities of Southern Mindanao that it will continue to uphold its mandate of protecting our sovereign seas and ensuring that security threats and terrorism will be finally put to an end for a peaceful and secured Mindanao.(By MPF News with NFWM PR)