The Philippine Navy (PN) and the United States Navy (USN) have enhanced their interoperability as they achieved their training objectives with the conclusion of the Philippines - United States (PH-US) Exercise "SAMA SAMA" over the weekend amid increasing tension with China in the South China Sea.

Lt. Gen. Efren Baluyot, commander of Southern Luzon Command (SOLCOM), graced the closing ceremony of the exercise at Naval Station Julhasan Arasain in Legazpi City, Albay on Oct. 13 and emphasized the concept of “togetherness” and true “bayanihan spirit” as diverse groups of people gathered and showcased unity in attaining their shared objectives.

“With our shared expertise and perspectives, our collaborative efforts boost our capability to efficiently address the constantly-evolving threats in the Indo-Pacific Region and assure that security and stability are within our grasp,” he said.

The annual bilateral naval exercise between the PN and USN focused on strengthening the troops' command and control (C2) and communication capabilities, as well as their ability to address non-traditional challenges such as territorial defense against "man-made threats," Baluyot said.

It also boosted the skills of the participants in resolving other non-traditional security issues such as counterterrorism, maritime security, and transnational crimes.

More than 2,000 participants were involved in the exercise including  delegates from Japan, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, and Australia who imparted their knowledge and expertise in different Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) and training on humanitarian and disaster response (HADR). 

Meanwhile, the Royal New Zealand Navy and Indonesian Navy joined as observers. 

The closing ceremony was also witnessed by Commander Jun Chen, foreign area officer from Destroyer Squadron Seven; and Commodore Joe Anthony Orbe, commander of Naval Forces Southern Luzon.