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The Philippine Navy continued to strengthen its presence in key maritime areas, utilizing BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), the second ship of Gregorio del Pilar-class patrol ships, to conduct maritime and sovereignty patrols in the southern Philippines area. These patrols reinforce the security of Philippine waters, safeguard maritime commerce, and support regional stability, said Rear Admiral Francisco Tagamolila Jr., commander of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao. During the patrol, PS16 steamed through waters off the islands of Sibutu, Sicalangcalong, and Bongao in Tawi-Tawi, ensuring the safety of commercial vessels and Filipino fishermen. The patrols were further enhanced through aerial surveillance utilizing the NH434 naval helicopter, providing real-time monitoring and an extended operational reach. The ship monitored 18 commercial vessels, all of which were found operating normally with no security concerns. The mission also maintained constant communication with Naval Monitoring Stations in the towns of Bongao and Taganak, ensuring updated situational awareness and coordinated security efforts. The Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia have an existing Trilateral Cooperative Arrangement (TCA), which focuses on coordinated maritime patrols in the Sulu Sea to combat transnational crimes and piracy. The sustained maritime patrols ensure the safety of seafarers, deter illegal activities, and uphold national sovereignty in Southern Philippines.
