THE Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) successfully conducted Marine Exercise (Marex) 2025 in collaboration with the United States Marine Corps in Maguindanao del Norte, the military said Friday, April 11, 2025.
The Westmincom said the joint exercise, which was held on Wednesday, April 9, in Penansaran village, Datu Blah Sinsuat, showcased the strength of Philippine-US military cooperation and joint readiness in a complex littoral operational environment.
The Westmincom said the exercise featured integrated joint operations, highlighted by the Joint Artillery Littoral Live Fire Exercises (JALLFX)-a precision coastal firepower drill that demonstrated the synergy between allied forces in defending the maritime domain.
Prior to the live fire event, participating units carried out a Full Mission Profile Amphibious Assault, involving Philippine Navy vessels and joint troops from the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, Philippine Marine Corps, and US Marine Corps.
"The simulated operation demonstrates seamless coordination and effective force projection from sea to shore, underlining the high level of interoperability achieved between partner forces," the Westmincom said in a statement.
Lieutenant General Antonio Nafarrete, Westmincom chief, who personally witnessed the joint exercise, praised the troops for their remarkable performance.
"We have just witnessed a truly remarkable display of skill, coordination, and unwavering dedication-the full mission profile amphibious assault, a highlight of Marine Exercise 2025," Nafarrete said in a statement.
Nafarrete, as the Westmincom chief, extended his sincerest congratulations to every participant who contributed to successful conduct of the exercise.
"We celebrate not only a successful training event but also the enduring strength of the Philippine Marine Corps-US Marine Corps partnership, a testament to the power of collaboration," he added.
He said that by executing complex joint and combined operations, the exercise reinforced the nation's ability to safeguard its territorial waters, respond to emerging security challenges, and maintain regional stability in close coordination with its allies.
Marex 2025 stands as a powerful testament to the increasing capability and professionalism of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Marex 2025 was spearheaded by Brigadier General Romulo Quemado II, 1st Marine Brigade commander, and executed under the operational oversight of Joint Task Force-Central. (SunStar Zamboanga)