Image reproduced from 自由時報電子報

According to reports, the Japan Coast Guard (JCG) confirmed on the 13th that the Philippines Coast Guard's multi-purpose patrol vessel, the 'Magbanuya' (MRRV-9701), has successfully arrived at Kagoshima Port in southern Kyushu. This vessel will engage in its first joint maritime safety and rescue exercise with the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and JCG off the coast of Japan on the 20th, further enhancing the maritime law enforcement capabilities of the three parties.

As per 'South Japan News' and 'TBS NEWS DIG', the 'Magbanuya' departed from Manila Port, the capital of the Philippines, on the 6th, carrying approximately 100 crew members and reached Kagoshima on the 12th. Following its arrival, the ship conducted small boat operations and boarding inspections on the 13th with the JCG's Kagoshima Maritime Security Division.

The exercise is scheduled to take place in Kagoshima Bay on the 20th, simulating a maritime vessel fire scenario and enhancing operational interoperability through information sharing and rescue efforts among the three nations. This joint training is the first time the US, Japan, and Philippines' maritime patrol vessels will cooperate in Japanese waters since their joint exercises in June 2023 in the western Manila Bay. The report also mentions that Philippine crew members will familiarize themselves with the local environment and facilities through onshore visits.

In the future, this series of joint exercises is expected to become routine, aiming to continuously enhance law enforcement experience and operational guidelines to better address maritime security threats, particularly in low-intensity and gray zone operations.

The image shows the Philippine patrol vessel 'Magbanuya' that arrived in Japan on the 12th.