Manila: has begun the deployment of “surface action groups” or multiple naval vessels as part of intensified efforts to protect the country’s maritime territories. In an interview with the Philippine News Agency Wednesday, PN spokesperson Captain John Percie Alcos said this move is part of the Navy’s focus on improving its warfighting capabilities.

According to Philippines News Agency, Alcos emphasized that the Navy is shifting from lone ship operations to deploying several warships simultaneously. This change aims to enhance the coverage and jurisdiction of Philippine maritime areas. Alcos explained that the deployment of these “surface action groups” is a component of the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept (CADC), a strategy designed to defend Philippine territories, including its 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.

When questioned about the potential inclusion of these “surface action groups” in future “maritime cooperative activities” (MCA) with United States naval forces or the annual “Balikatan” exercises, Alcos expressed openness to the idea. He stated that if planners for “Balikatan” or other exercises consider this, the Navy would welcome exercises involving the formation of “surface action groups.”

On January 17 to 18, naval and air units from the Philippines and the United States conducted the first maritime cooperative activity (MCA) of the year in the West Philippine Sea. This activity took place in the Palawan area of the West Philippine Sea.