The activity started with an opening ceremony followed by a send-off of participants for at-sea scenarios presided over by the Acting Commander, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, CAPT Junjie Tabuada.
In his message, Tabuada stressed that this exercise is not just a test of operational readiness but a validation of the trust and teamwork that the Command has built across maritime agencies. “Let us be reminded that the safety of our people and the sovereignty of our nation depend on our ability to operate as a cohesive force,” he further said.
The Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2024-02 focused on operational scenarios such as resource exploitation and potential militarization by unmarked foreign vessels. The participating agencies showcased their readiness and capability to address various challenges at sea while emphasizing the importance of interagency cooperation in maintaining peace and security in the region.
The exercise also provided an opportunity to further develop the interoperability of the participating agencies, ensuring an efficient response in real-life maritime scenarios. By leveraging the strengths of each agency, the Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2024-02 demonstrated the agencies’ ability to respond efficiently and seamlessly to potential maritime challenges.
The event involved the active participation of agencies including the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSM), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources 11, Philippine National Police Regional Maritime Unit 11, Bureau of Customs, and Bureau of Immigration.
NFEM remains committed to strengthening its ties with other maritime agencies and continuing its vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the country’s territorial waters.