As part of its program to strengthen the fight against piracy, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) conducted a joint communication and anti-piracy enterprise with the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) on Thursday, Nov. 18 at the Sibutu Passage in Tawi-Tawi.
The exercise saw the BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) and BRP Malamawi (FPB-2403) participating from the PCG, while Japan's CG had JCGS Tsugaru (PLH-02) with its carrier helicopter.
The two coast guards from the Philippines and Japan performed radio communication between the JCG helicopter and PCG vessels.
An anti-piracy operation was also demonstrated wherein the JCG helicopter searched for suspicious boats and reported them to the PCG and JCG through vessel communication.
The exercise served as an opportunity for the PCG and JCG to discuss best practices and learn from each other.
The joint maritime exercise enhanced the synergy between the Philippines and Japan in relation to maritime affairs. It also allowed the PCG and JCG to improve collaboration in response to maritime incidents and towards the development of anti-piracy programs.