The Philippine Navy (PN) deployed patrol ship BRP Andres (PS17) to Muara, Brunei Darussalam for the “Maritime Training Activity (MTA) Seagull” scheduled from Oct. 7 to 11.
Vice Adm. Toribio Adaci Jr., PN Flag Officer in Command, led the send-off ceremony for BRP Andres Bonifacio and the 169 officers and personnel joining the training at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.
The MTA Seagull is a biennial bilateral training exercise between the PN and the Royal Brunei Navy which is aimed at enhancing cooperation and fortifying the strategic partnership between the two navies.
“The Philippine Navy's participation in this exercise underscores its commitment to deepening engagement and collaboration in maritime activities and joint training with the Royal Brunei Navy,” said Commander John Percie Alcos, PN spokesperson.
The MTA Seagull is set to feature a comprehensive range of activities, beginning with operational planning and communication discussions tailored to the various serials and events for the two-day sea phase.
It will also include a Navy SEALs workshop focused on Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) operations, as well as Unmanned Aerial Surveillance (UAS) collaboration and training.
In addition, participants will engage in community outreach programs, subject matter expert exchanges, and sports events.
“These activities are meticulously designed to enhance interoperability, facilitate knowledge sharing, and deepen mutual understanding between the two navies, thereby, strengthening their ability to collaborate effectively in various maritime security operations,” Alcos said.