Kagoshima: The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) announced on Wednesday that the recently concluded trilateral maritime exercise with the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) has strengthened the alliance between the three nations in terms of coast guard safety and security.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PCG highlighted in a statement that the 2nd Joint Trilateral Maritime Exercise held in Kagoshima, Japan, underscored the importance of maritime cooperation among regional allies. This exercise incorporated a variety of activities, including a Communication Exercise (COMMEX), a Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX), a Fire Fighting Exercise (FFEX), a Photo Exercise (PHOTOEX), and an Exercise on Transfer of Personnel.

The PCG noted that the exercise significantly improved the interoperability among the three coast guards, enhancing their collective ability to respond to maritime emergencies and natural disasters. It also provided a crucial platform for the exchange of best practices, the improvement of operational synergy, and the reaffirmation of a mutual commitment to uphold safety, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Philippines was represented by the BRP Teresa Magbanua (MRRV-9701) and a 123-member PCG delegation during the five-day trilateral maritime exercise, which took place from June 16 to 20.