MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and Japan showcased growing defense cooperation with the successful conduct of the 2nd Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) on June 14, 2025, marking one of the first major joint operations since the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA).

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) participated in the drill, which emphasized enhanced interoperability in naval operations and signaled the operational rollout of the RAA. The agreement enables greater joint training, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response efforts between the two countries.

Participating Philippine assets included the BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG06), an AW159 anti-submarine helicopter, a C-208 intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft from the Philippine Air Force, and search and rescue units. Japan deployed the JS Takanami (DD110) and an SH-60K Seahawk helicopter.

The exercise featured a series of coordinated naval drills such as communication checks, anti-submarine warfare, cross-deck transfers, Division Tactics and Officer of the Watch Maneuvers (DIVTACS/OOW), photo exercises, and a concluding Finish Exercise (FINEX).

AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said the MCA reflects the shared strategic vision of both nations.

“This cooperative activity is more than a display of maritime capability—it is a manifestation of our enduring commitment to uphold peace, stability, and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific,” he said.

“With the RAA now in effect, our coordination with Japan will only grow stronger and more responsive to the complex demands of our shared security environment,” he added.

The MCA is part of the broader push to strengthen regional maritime security as tensions in the Indo-Pacific continue to evolve.