LUBANG ISLAND. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) completed a Joint Passing Exercise (PASSEX) yesterday in the waters near Lubang Island. This exercise, involving the PCG’s BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV 9702) and the USCG Cutter Waesche (WMSL-751), underscores the growing cooperation and closer relations between the Coast Guards of the two allied nations.
Sharing similar mandates and values, the PCG and USCG are committed to protecting lives at sea and maintaining a rules-based maritime order. The exercise aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation and interoperability between the two services, focusing on maritime safety and environmental protection.
The PASSEX exercise simulated various scenarios, including Search and Rescue (SAR), firefighting, communication exercises (COMEX), and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC). Through the sharing of best practices, concepts, doctrines, and standard operating procedures, both Coast Guards enhanced their capabilities to respond to maritime emergencies and contingencies effectively.
The exercise commenced at 7 AM on July 16, 2024, upon the arrival of the USCG Cutter Waesche at the designated exercise area. The entire operation was completed by noon.
“This joint exercise underscores our commitment to safeguarding lives at sea, promoting maritime security, and protecting the marine environment,” said a PCG spokesperson.
The PCG and its USCG partners will continue to expand their collaboration, enhancing their ability to respond to maritime contingencies and promote a safe, secure, and peaceful rules-based maritime order.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
