October 15, 2023
LEGAZPI CITY – After an intense 12 days of joint maritime drills named “Exercise Samasama 2023,” the partnership between the naval forces of the Philippines and the United States in the Indo-Pacific waters has been notably fortified.
The leader of Southern Luzon Command, Lt. Gen. Efren Baluyot, expressed that these drills played a pivotal role in enhancing maritime security measures, ensuring regional stability, and gearing up for potential conflict interventions.
“Our combined expertise and vision amplify our ability to effectively navigate and counter the multifaceted threats present in the Indo-Pacific waters. Together, we’re ensuring that a secure and stable environment is attainable,” Baluyot mentioned during the conclusion ceremony held at the Naval Forces Southern Luzon in Rawis, Legazpi City.
Naval forces from various countries, including Japan’s Maritime Self Defense Force, the Royal Australian, Canadian, and UK Navies, along with observers from New Zealand and Indonesia, were active participants.
Key assets deployed during the exercise were vessels from the US Navy, such as the USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8) and USS Dewey (DDG 105), along with assets from the Philippines, Japan, the UK, and Canada.
The exercise was comprehensive, with training modules encompassing various aspects like medicine, law, engineering, logistics, diving, surveillance, warfare strategies, and maritime domain awareness.
One key takeaway was recognizing the areas that needed improvement. “Identifying our shortcomings is crucial. It provides direction for our future endeavors and ensures that our defense mechanisms are attuned to current and emerging global threats,” stated Baluyot.
He further emphasized the deeper bonds and camaraderies formed during the exercise. “Beyond the tactical learnings, this joint exercise fostered stronger relationships and built memorable experiences.”
Lt. Gen. Baluyot remains optimistic about the benefits of such collaborations. “Our goal to ensure maritime peace rests heavily on these dynamic partnerships with other naval forces.”
To foster camaraderie outside the drills, social events like a concert and sports day were organized, enabling soldiers from different nations to bond.
Reiterating the significance of such collaborations, Capt. Sean Lewis of the US Destroyer Squadron 7 previously mentioned, “Our longstanding alliance with the Philippines is enriched through such robust joint trainings. The participation of multiple nations enhances our collective response to various security threats and ensures regional stability.”
Parallel to the main exercise, UK Defense Minister of State Annabel Goldie met with officials at the Philippine Navy headquarters in Manila. The meeting revolved around bolstering defense ties, upholding international maritime laws, and discussions stemming from the earlier Philippine-UK Maritime Dialogue conducted in February.
For additional information and further reading, refer to the original article here.