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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH Navy frigate joins multilateral drills in Australia to boost Indo-Pacific ties

PH Navy frigate joins multilateral drills in Australia to boost Indo-Pacific ties

Published Mar 13, 2026 02:46 pm
Members of the Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.6 arrive in Darwin, Australia and participate in a pre-sail briefing together with other allied navies on March 6, 2026. The contingent is participating in the Exercise Kakadu slated from March 8 to 30. (Photo: Philippine Navy)
Members of the Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.6 arrive in Darwin, Australia and participate in a pre-sail briefing together with other allied navies on March 6, 2026. The contingent is participating in the Exercise Kakadu slated from March 8 to 30. (Photo: Philippine Navy)
The Philippine Navy (PN) ramped up its maritime diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific region as it deployed Naval Task Group (NTG) 80.6 aboard the BRP Diego Silang (FFG7) to Darwin, Australia to join two major international maritime events.
The contingent is participating in the International Fleet Review (IFR) and Exercise KAKADU 2026, currently being held from March 8 to 30. The contingent arrived in Darwin last March 6.
“The active participation in IFR and Exercise KAKADU 2026 demonstrates the Philippine Navy’s steadfast commitment to regional maritime cooperation,” said Rear Admiral Peter Jempsun V. De Guzman, acting commander of the Naval Defense Command.
He said the contingent aims to strengthen partnerships with allied and partner navies in the Indo-Pacific region.
Hosted by the Royal Australian Navy, Exercise KAKADU is a biennial multilateral exercise specifically designed to enhance multilateral maritime cooperation.
The drills focus on strengthening capabilities for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) and search and rescue (SAR) operations.
Meanwhile, the IFR is a long‑standing naval tradition where warships from different countries assemble for ceremonial inspection and celebration. In 2026, the event marks the 125th anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy’s founding.
The Royal Australian Navy said that the fleet review saw the largest gathering of international warships on Sydney Harbour for more than a decade with up to 30 ships from 19 countries assembled in a display of international sea power.
Upon their arrival in Darwin, Filipino sailors immediately engaged with their foreign counterparts.
The NTG 80.6 commenced activities through a friendly sports event intended for “fostering camaraderie and strengthening bonds among partner nations.”
“The activity served as an opportunity for sailors to interact and build professional relationships in preparation for the upcoming maritime activities,” the fleet command reported.
The contingent also conducted a pre-sail briefing to ensure the readiness of all officers and crew members. The briefing covered essential areas such as operational coordination and safety protocols, and detailed the mission objectives in support of the multinational exercise.
After its month-long stint in Darwin, BRP Diego Silang and the NTG 80.6 will continue to participate in other lined-up sea events and harbor activities in Sydney, Australia.

Related Tags

Philippine Navy Australia Exercise Kakadu International Fleet Review Indo-Pacific
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