THE NAVAL Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) successfully conducted the Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2024-02 in the Davao Gulf on Oct. 21.
The exercise began with an opening ceremony and a send-off of participants for at-sea scenarios, presided over by the acting commander of NFEM, Captain Junjie Tabuada.
In his address, Captain Tabuada emphasized that the exercise was not merely a test of operational readiness, but also a validation of the trust and teamwork that the Command has built with partner maritime agencies.
“Let us be reminded that the safety of our people and the sovereignty of our nation depend on our ability to operate as a cohesive force,” he added.
The Maritime Inter-Agency Exercise 2024-02 focused on operational scenarios such as illegal resource exploitation and potential militarization by unmarked foreign vessels.
Lieutenant Commander Reynante Villela, the NFEM Public Affairs Office chief, said the participating agencies showcased their readiness and capability to address various challenges at sea, emphasizing the importance of interagency cooperation in maintaining peace and security in the region.
The exercise also provided an opportunity to further develop interoperability among the participating agencies, ensuring an efficient response in real-life maritime scenarios.
By leveraging the strengths of each agency, the exercise demonstrated their ability to respond efficiently and seamlessly to potential maritime challenges.
Participating agencies included the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSM), Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources XI, Philippine National Police Regional Maritime Unit XI, Bureau of Customs, and Bureau of Immigration.
NFEM remains committed to strengthening its ties with other maritime agencies and continuing its vital role in ensuring the safety and security of the country’s territorial waters.
Photos courtesy of NFEM
