THE Philippine Navy continued to strengthen its presence in key maritime areas, utilizing BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), the second ship of Gregorio del Pilar-class patrol ships, to conduct maritime and sovereignty patrols in the southern Philippines area.
The maritime zone in southern Philippines falls within the area of operations of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM).
"These patrols reinforce the security of Philippine waters, safeguard maritime commerce, and support regional stability," Rear Admiral Francisco Tagamolila Jr., NFWM commander, said in a statement Thursday, February 27, 2025.
Tagamolila sid PS16 steamed through waters off the islands of Sibutu, Sicalangcalong, and Bongao in Tawi-Tawi on February 25, ensuring the safety of commercial vessels and Filipino fishermen.
The patrols were further enhanced through aerial surveillance utilizing the NH434 naval helicopter, providing real-time monitoring and an extended operational reach, he added.
Tagamolila said that throughout the patrol, PS16 monitored 18 commercial vessels, all of which were found operating normally with no security concerns.
He said that constant communication with Naval Monitoring Stations in the towns of Bongao and Taganak was maintained throughout the mission, ensuring updated situational awareness and coordinated security efforts.
He said the PS16, in support of regional security efforts, also conducted coordinated maritime patrols in support to the Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement (TCA), reinforcing interoperability with allied forces and deterring transnational crimes in Western Mindanao's waters.
TCA is a pact between three countries to collaborate on a specific issue, often involving joint efforts to address shared challenges like maritime security, counterterrorism, or economic development.
The Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia had an existing TCA, which focuses on coordinated maritime patrols in Sulu Sea to combat transnational crimes and piracy.
"These operations contribute to maintaining stability in the maritime domain and strengthening collaborative security initiatives. The Philippine Navy remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation's waters," Tagamolila said.
He said the sustained maritime patrols ensured the safety of seafarers, deters illegal activities, and upholds national sovereignty in Southern Philippines. (SunStar Zamboanga)