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The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Coast Guard conducted a Maritime Cooperative Activity in the South China Sea within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone from May 26 to 30, underscoring efforts to bolster regional and international cooperation in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The event was the sixth such activity of 2026 and the first this year to include the U.S. Coast Guard, represented by the Legend-class cutter USCGC Midgett (WMSL 757), alongside the Philippine navy and coast guard. Training centered on visit, board, search and seizure; maritime interdiction operations; search and rescue; and maritime law enforcement.
“The strength of our partnerships is forged at sea. This exercise provides an invaluable opportunity to hone our maritime law enforcement capabilities and share best practices with our allies,” said Capt. Brian Whisler, commanding officer of Midgett. “The U.S. Coast Guard remains deeply committed to the collective maritime security throughout the region.”
Officials said the activities are carried out in accordance with international law and with due regard for the safety and navigational rights and freedoms of all nations.
Participating units included the Philippine Navy’s Jose Rizal-class frigate BRP Antonio Luna (FFG15) with an AW109 helicopter; the Philippine Air Force’s two FA-50 fighter jets, two A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, a Cessna C-208B Grand Caravan EX, and a Sokol search and rescue helicopter; the Philippine Coast Guard’s Teresa Magbanua-class patrol vessel BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV 9702); and the U.S. Coast Guard’s Midgett.
The U.S., together with allies and partners, says it upholds freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law.
The U.S. 7th Fleet, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, routinely operates with allies and partners in efforts to preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific.
