The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted a routine patrol and communication check on Kota Island, a Philippine-held feature in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), on Friday. This operation is part of the AFP’s ongoing maritime patrol efforts in the Kalayaan Island Group (KIG) to ensure security, assert sovereignty, and boost troop morale in the region.
The operation was carried out by personnel aboard the Navy offshore patrol vessel, BRP Andres Bonifacio (PS-17). Kota Island holds both strategic and symbolic significance in the WPS.
“The patrol included a communication and coordination check with stationed personnel—an essential measure to ensure operational readiness and boost morale, especially amid challenging weather conditions,” the AFP stated in a news release. The vessel also passed by Patag Island, continuing its mission to monitor and secure other Philippine-held features in the area.
This operation underscores the AFP’s commitment to maintaining a regular presence and coordination across remote Philippine outposts, aligning with national defense and maritime domain awareness objectives.