The Philippine Navy (PN) contingent which participated in the recent Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2020 in Honolulu, Hawaii maximized its exposure by participating in post-event exercises with the United States and Brunei navies while en route back to the Philippines.
The Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.5 aboard the BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150) joined a group sail with the US Navy destroyer USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93) and Royal Brunei Navy's offshore patrol vessel KDB Darulehsan (OPV 07) in the vicinity of Oahu Island, Hawaii.
Lt. Commander Maria Christina Roxas, acting director of naval public affairs office, said the NTG 80.5 will also execute a minimal series of exercises with the US and Brunei ships while sailing to the vast Pacific Ocean on their way to refuel and re-provision in Guam.
Among the mini exercises include signal flag-hoisting, gunnery, photo, flashing, and other miscellaneous exercises.
Roxas said these exercises will enhance the "quality training and interoperability between the three nations after a successful stint" in this year's RIMPAC.
The PN contingent is expected to arrive in Subic, Zambales on Sept. 21.
Lt. Gen. Gilbert Gapay had earlier urged the PN contingent to share what they learned from the largest maritime warfare drill in the world.
The RIMPAC 2020 was held from Aug. 17 to 31. A total of 10 countries participated –
Australia, Brunei, Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, Korea, Philippines, Singapore, and United States.
Twenty-two ships, one submarine, and around 5,300 naval personnel joined in the drills that were limited at sea due to the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.
The RIMPAC 2020 served as a shakedown cruise for the BRP Jose Rizal to test the frigate's capabilities after its commissioning ceremony two months ago.