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Manlalakbay, Diliman (2025)

13/12/2025

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) successfully conducted the 9th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on December 9 to 10, underscoring the two nations’ shared commitment to maintaining stability, security, and the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The MCA provided both forces an opportunity to enhance interoperability, deepen operational cooperation, and strengthen joint capabilities amid evolving security challenges. This activity reaffirms the enduring defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States, maintaining the vital role in safeguarding regional peace and ensuring open and secure maritime domains.

During the exercise, the AFP deployed a robust set of assets, including the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), three FA-50 fighter jets, three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, one PAF Black Hawk, and one Sokol helicopter. These assets demonstrated the Philippines’ expanding operational readiness and its growing ability to integrate with allied forces in complex maritime scenarios.

USINDOPACOM, for its part, utilized the USS Rafael Peralta (DDG-115), MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, showcasing advanced capabilities in surveillance, naval warfare, and joint maritime operations.

Both forces successfully executed a series of cooperative evolutions, including Division Tactics (DIVTACS), complex ship maneuvering exercises, Night Steaming in Company (NSIC), and fly by or low pass of aircrafts. An "intercept and es**rt" exercise of US P-8A by the PAF's FA50 was also conducted. These activities sharpened coordination, improved communication procedures, and enhanced the ability of both militaries to operate seamlessly in a dynamic maritime environment.

The Philippine–U.S. Bilateral MCA stands as a testament to the strong and growing alliance between the two nations. It reinforces shared commitments to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and a peaceful, stable Indo-Pacific region where the rights of all nations—big or small—are upheld. (Photo by: FF150, PAF and US INDOPACOM)

13/12/2025

PCG Successfully Renders Assistance to Harassed Filipino Fishermen at Escoda Shoal Amid Aggressive Actions by Chinese Vessels

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) today announced the successful deployment of its multi-role response vessels, MRRV-4403 and MRRV-4411, to the vicinity of Escoda Shoal in the West Philippine Sea to provide critical support to a group of Filipino fishermen who were subjected to harassment by Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) and Chinese Maritime Militia (CMM).

On December 12, 2025, the PCG received reports that approximately 20 Filipino fishing boats (FFBs) operating lawfully in the area were targeted with water cannons and dangerous blocking maneuvers by CCG vessels 21559 and 21562 and accompanying CMMs. In a brazen escalation, small CCG Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) deliberately cut the anchor lines of several FFBs, endangering the vessels and their crews amid strong currents and high waves.

As a direct result of these aggressive actions, three Filipino fishermen sustained physical injuries, including bruises and open wounds. Two FFBs also suffered significant damage from high-pressure water cannon blasts.

En route to rendezvous with the affected fishermen, the PCG vessels encountered repeated blocking and dangerous maneuvers by CCG vessels 21559, 5204 and 21562. One particularly hazardous incident occurred when CCG-23519 approached within 35 yards of a PCG vessel during nighttime navigation. Despite these unprofessional and unlawful interferences, the PCG successfully reached the fishermen this morning and provided immediate medical attention to the injured, along with essential supplies.

Currently, MRRV-4403 and MRRV-4411, in coordination with the vessel MV Pamalakaya, are maintaining close proximity to the group of Filipino fishermen to ensure their security and safety. Fuel, ice, and food provisions have been distributed to sustain their ongoing fishing activities, in line with the government's Kadiwa para sa Bagong Bayaning Mangingisda (KBBM) initiative.

The China Coast Guard's statement confirming the implementation of "necessary control measures" against Filipino fishermen constitutes an acknowledgment of actions that endangered the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Filipinos exercising their rightful activities within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone.

In furherance of the standing directive of President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr, the PCG under the leadership of Commandant Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, the Philippine Coast Guard remains steadfast in its mandate to protect Filipino fishermen and uphold maritime safety in the West Philippine Sea. The PCG calls on the Chinese Coast Guard to adhere to internationally recognized standards of conduct, prioritizing the preservation of life at sea over pretensions of law enforcement that jeopardize the lives of innocent fishermen. (Philippine Coast Guard)

13/12/2025

The Philippine Army received the locally designed Controller-Operated Battle Ready Armament (COBRA), a mounted automated weapons system, during a turnover ceremony at the Armor Division's headquarters in Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on December 11, 2025.

The development and subsequent manufacture of COBRA is a testament to the Philippine Army’s collaborative approach in support of the government’s Self Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP). It also aligns with AFP Modernization program which will provide means and resources for soldiers to accomplish every mission effectively and support the military's active transition to external security operations (ESO).(Photos by Cpl. Rodgen V. Quirante PA/OCPA)

13/12/2025

The Philippine Army recognized the excellence of the Philippine Army Shooting Contingent (PASCON) that bannered the country in the 33rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations Armies Rifle Meet (AARM) 2025 in a recognition ceremony at the Headquarters Philippine Army, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on December 12, 2025.

“Filipino soldiers can excel even in the most challenging stages of international marksmanship events,” Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete remarked. The Army Chief lauded the PASCON members for beating all odds and showcasing the Philippine Army's outstanding marksmanship skills and combat readiness in the annual shooting competition.

"You did a good job, and we thank you for lifting high the colors of our nation and the honor of Filipino soldiery. You have made every Filipino proud," the Army Chief remarked.

The Philippine Army stands committed to the pursuit of excellence and service that are rooted in the values of professionalism and discipline. The Army leadership lauds the Army shooters for embodying the core values of honor, duty and patriotism even beyond the battlefield. (Photos by Cpl. Rodgen V. Quirante PA/OCPA)

12/12/2025

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) successfully conducted the 9th Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on December 9 to 10, underscoring the two nations’ shared commitment to maintaining stability, security, and the rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The MCA provided both forces an opportunity to enhance interoperability, deepen operational cooperation, and strengthen joint capabilities amid evolving security challenges. This activity reaffirms the enduring defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States, maintaining the vital role in safeguarding regional peace and ensuring open and secure maritime domains.

During the exercise, the AFP deployed a robust set of assets, including the BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), three FA-50 fighter jets, three A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, one PAF Black Hawk, and one Sokol helicopter. These assets demonstrated the Philippines’ expanding operational readiness and its growing ability to integrate with allied forces in complex maritime scenarios.

USINDOPACOM, for its part, utilized the USS Rafael Peralta (DDG-115), MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, and a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, showcasing advanced capabilities in surveillance, naval warfare, and joint maritime operations.

Both forces successfully executed a series of cooperative evolutions, including Division Tactics (DIVTACS), complex ship maneuvering exercises, Night Steaming in Company (NSIC), and fly by or low pass of aircrafts. An "intercept and es**rt" exercise of US P-8A by the PAF's FA50 was also conducted. These activities sharpened coordination, improved communication procedures, and enhanced the ability of both militaries to operate seamlessly in a dynamic maritime environment.

The Philippine–U.S. Bilateral MCA stands as a testament to the strong and growing alliance between the two nations. It reinforces shared commitments to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and a peaceful, stable Indo-Pacific region where the rights of all nations—big or small—are upheld. (Video by: FF150, PAF and US INDOPACOM)

12/12/2025

PBBM sa San Juanico Brudge

(Photo by PCO)

12/12/2025

Secretary of National Defense Gilberto C. Teodoro, Jr. met with H.E. Smiljana Knez, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the Philippines, during her introductory call at the Department of National Defense on December 5, 2025.

The SND expressed appreciation for Slovenia's support of the Philippines bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council
(UNSC) and affirmed the Philippines' readiness to explore avenues for defense and security cooperation. The two officials underscored the Philippines' ongoing defense modernization efforts, particularly through the Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) program, as a foundation for deeper collaboration.

Ambassador Knez reiterated Slovenia's recognition of the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal Award, underscoring the critical importance of upholding a rules-based international order. This reaffirmation highlights the shared commitment between the Philippines and Slovenia to fostering peace and stability in the region, particularly in the South China Sea.

The Ambassador's call for continued collaboration follows the recent high-level visit of Slovenia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Tanja Fajon, to Manila in March 2025. This visit further solidified the growing momentum of diplomatic and economic exchanges between the two nations, and marks a new chapter of partnership aimed at addressing regional and global challenges. (Department of National Defense)

12/12/2025

The Philippine Air Force participated in the 9th Philippines–United States Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) conducted on December 10, 2025 in the West Philippine Sea. The activity aims to enhance interoperability between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), in support of maritime security and improved Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) within the region.

PAF assets played a vital role in the exercise, with FA-50PH aircraft and A-29B Super Tucano units conducting coordinated air operations in support of joint maritime security objectives.

Additionally, an S-70i Black Hawk helicopter executed vertical replenishment missions aboard a US vessel in partnership with the Naval Air Warfare Wing of the Philippine Navy. A SOKOL Search and Rescue aircraft also provided operational support, contributing to the activity’s emphasis on safety, readiness, and integrated maritime response capabilities.

The PH-US MCA reflects the enduring cooperation between the Philippines and the United States in promoting regional security and stability. Through combined air and maritime operations, the Philippine Air Force continues to strengthen its capabilities and contribute to a more secure and resilient maritime environment. (Philippine Air Force)

11/12/2025

The Philippine Army received the locally designed Controller-Operated Battle Ready Armament (COBRA), a mounted automated weapons system, during a turnover ceremony at the Armor Division's headquarters in Camp O'Donnell, Capas, Tarlac on December 11, 2025.

"With COBRA, our soldiers will no longer be exposed to heavy fire when operating heavy weapons. This project is not just a product for national defense. It symbolizes our collective pursuit of a self-reliant posture through science, technology and innovation," Army Chief Lt. Gen. Antonio G. Nafarrete said.

Department of National Defense, Department of Science and Technology and Philippine Army officials witnessed the Project COBRA in action in a capability demonstration which followed the turn-over ceremony at Camp O'Donnell.

The development and subsequent manufacture of COBRA is a testament to the Philippine Army’s collaborative approach in support of the government’s Self Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP). It also aligns with AFP Modernization program which will provide means and resources for soldiers to accomplish every mission effectively and support the military's active transition to external security operations (ESO).(Photos by Cpl. Rodgen V. Quirante PA/OCPA)

11/12/2025

Maraming nakalatag na military exercises sa 2026 kasama ang mga kaalyado ng Pilipinas para mas mapalakas ang kakayahan ng ating Sandatahang Lakas para ipagtanggol ang ating soberanya at karapatan ng mga Filipino…

11/12/2025

The Philippines and France convened the 5th Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) Meeting today, bringing together senior defense officials to discuss ongoing and emerging areas of cooperation.

The Philippine delegation was led by Assistant Secretary for International Affairs Marita I. Yoro, joined by senior officials from the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

In her remarks, Asec. Yoro noted the significant progress in bilateral defense cooperation since the last JDCC in 2024. She highlighted French Navy's participation in Exercise Balikatan 2024, the conduct of multiple port calls in the Philippines, and the commencement of the first round of negotiations on the proposed Philippines-France Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) in June 2025 in Paris. She emphasized that the SOVFA is crucial in establishing a clear legal framework to support joint military activities. These developments, she added, align with the 2023 Letter of Intent aimed at strengthening the defense ties between the two countries.

Asec. Yoro reiterated that the Philippines views France as a like-minded partner in promoting regional stability and maintaining a rules-based international order.

Rear Admiral Jérôme Theillier, Head of International Security Affairs of the Directorate General for International Relations and Strategy, Ministry of the Armed Forces of France, reaffirmed France’s enduring commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. He underscored France’s intention to remain a reliable partner and a credible provider of security alongside its regional counterparts.

The JDCC discussions covered a wide range of cooperation areas, including an exchange of views on Indo-Pacific security developments, with a particular focus on Pacific Island clusters and the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea, critical undersea infrastructures, ongoing minilateral initiatives, and broader regional strategic issues.

Both sides also reviewed upcoming planned Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activities, including preparations for Multinational Exercise MARARA 2026, Exercise Balikatan 2026, and Exercise SAMASAMA 2026. Participation in these exercises underscores the growing and long-term defense partnership between the Philippines and France. (Department of National Defense)

10/12/2025

DISINFORMATION ALERT | The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) warns the public on the FALSE claims made by certain individuals posted on Asian Century PH alleging that the United States “forced” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to cancel the Mi-17 helicopter procurement from Russia.

FACT: The Mi-17 acquisition project was cancelled during the administration of former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte through a letter of termination signed by former Secretary of National Defense Delfin N. Lorenzana.

The cancellation of the procurement was driven by prevailing security and geopolitical developments, particularly the conflict in Ukraine that began on February 24, 2022, and the international sanctions imposed on Russia. These circumstances made the acquisition unfeasible and significantly constrained its implementation. The decision was guided by practical and security considerations.

The AFP strongly encourages the public to rely solely on verified government sources for accurate and responsible information on defense and security matters. We remain firmly committed to transparency, truth, and the proactive countering of disinformation that may mislead the public or undermine confidence in our institutions.

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