(DC file photo)
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Navy is mobilizing most of its available naval assets, including warships, Marine units, special operations personnel and aircraft, to strengthen maritime security during the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits in Manila.
The deployment aims to ensure the safety of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., visiting heads of state, foreign delegates and other participants attending the international gathering from November 15 to 17.
Among the naval vessels identified for deployment are the BRP Rajah Sulayman and BRP Rajah Lakandula, which will help secure the waters surrounding Manila during the summit.
The Navy will also deploy personnel from the Philippine Marine Corps and Naval Special Operations Group, alongside naval aviation assets, as part of its security preparations.
The maritime deployment forms part of broader government efforts to maintain security during the high-level diplomatic meetings, which will bring together leaders from ASEAN member states and partner countries.
Naval forces will focus on protecting designated maritime areas and supporting security operations throughout the summit.
The Navy’s participation is intended to strengthen the security presence around Manila while ensuring that maritime threats do not disrupt the international gathering.
West Philippine Sea operations to continue
Despite the deployment of substantial resources for the ASEAN Summit, the Philippine Navy assured the public that its regular maritime security operations would continue across the country.
These include ongoing missions in the West Philippine Sea, where Philippine naval forces maintain a presence to protect the country’s maritime interests.
The Navy emphasized that securing the summit would not mean suspending its other operational responsibilities.
The deployment highlights the military’s role in supporting national security during major international events while maintaining its regular maritime defense and security commitments.
The Philippines is hosting the 49th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits under its 2026 ASEAN chairmanship theme, “Navigating our Future, Together.”
