The Philippine Air Force (PAF) recently disclosed its collaboration with the U.S. Air Force in a joint maritime air patrol (MARPAT) over Batanes and the West Philippine Sea (WPS). This operation, involving two South Korean-made FA-50PH light jet fighters, aimed to enhance interoperability and bolster regional security alongside the country’s longstanding ally, the US. The significance of this Philippine-US MARPAT, emphasizing its role in strengthening cooperation with US counterparts. This initiative falls under the ongoing maritime cooperative activity (MCA) between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), scheduled until November 23, 2023.
Colonel Medel Aguilar, the AFP spokesperson, underlined that the collaboration with the US was not intended to heighten tensions with China. He clarified that all actions were conducted in accordance with international laws and conventions, including UNCLOS, COLREG, and CUE. Aguilar emphasized that the joint patrol was a testament to the country’s steadfast commitment to asserting sovereign rights and jurisdiction while upholding conventions advocating for peaceful resolution of maritime conflicts. He expressed hope for China to engage in similar actions, fostering a shared commitment to peaceful resolutions within the region.
The utilization of various Philippine Air Force air assets throughout this joint maritime endeavor. The commitment to readiness and support for the Armed Forces of the Philippines’s initiatives in safeguarding national territory and maritime interests while ensuring regional peace and security remained a prime focus for the Air Force. This joint endeavor serves as a demonstration of the Philippines’ dedication to regional security and collaborative efforts with allies, ensuring stability in the West Philippine Sea while upholding international regulations and promoting peaceful solutions to maritime disputes.
The joint maritime exercise will further involve the participation of naval vessels from both the Philippine Navy and the U.S. Navy. As this developed, the BRP Conrado Yap (PS-39) and the USS Gabrielle Giffords (LCS-10) performed passing exercises (PASSEX) on Wednesday, as part of the three-day MCA. The two ships met and linked up last night west of Lubang Island and completed the exercises aimed at testing communications capabilities for real-life scenarios. The MCA demonstrates the commitment of the AFP and USINDOPACOM to the Philippine-US alliance and in maintaining regional stability and security in accordance with international law and the rules-based international order.
