Manila: The Philippine Navy (PN) has deployed one of its offshore patrol vessels, BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37), to conduct maritime patrol (MARPAT) operations in Eastern Mindanao. The patrol, conducted on Monday, covered the waters of Sarangani Province, Balut Island, Davao Occidental, and the Philippines-Indonesia maritime boundary.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Navy's operation is part of its ongoing efforts to secure the country's vast waters. The patrol aimed to enhance maritime domain awareness, secure vital sea lines of communication, and deter illegal and transnational maritime activities. The area includes key maritime approaches near international boundaries.

The Navy emphasized that the mission underscores the importance of maintaining a continuous naval presence to safeguard national sovereignty and promote regional stability. Through regular MARPAT operations, the PN ensures the safety of maritime traffic and coastal communities while supporting broader peace and order efforts in the region.