(Coast Guard Station-Isabela)
TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan — A temporary no-sail zone will be enforced in the waters off Dinapigue, Isabela, on August 17 and 18 as the Philippine Army conducts live-fire exercises as part of the Combined Arms Brigade Exercise (CABEX) 2026.
The Coast Guard Station Isabela said the restriction will cover the vicinity waters of Dinapigue to ensure the safety of fishermen, boat operators, and other sea users during the military exercise.
The Coast Guard advised fishermen, boat operators, and other maritime users to stay away from the designated area while the live-fire activities are underway, both during the day and at night.
The restriction is intended to prevent accidents and other untoward incidents at sea, the Coast Guard said.
Normal maritime activities will resume after the Philippine Army completes the scheduled exercise.
CABEX 2026 is being conducted by the 502nd Infantry “Liberator” Brigade of the 5th Infantry “Star” Division, Philippine Army, to strengthen the combat readiness of its troops for territorial defense operations.
The exercise, which started on August 10, includes planning drills, simulations, rehearsals, and live-fire activities.
It focuses on command and control, coordination, and the synchronized employment of various military capabilities in territorial defense operations.
The army’s 502nd Brigade said its area of responsibility has already achieved a Stable Internal Peace and Security condition, allowing the unit to place greater emphasis on strengthening its territorial defense capabilities while continuing to safeguard local communities.
CABEX 2026 also seeks to test the participating units’ ability to conduct coordinated operations, maintain communications, and sustain their missions amid changing operational conditions.