The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and United States Coast Guard (USCG) strengthened their maritime cooperation through a joint Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) conducted in the waters off northern Palawan on October 14, 2026.
The exercise involved the PCG vessel BRP Suluan (MRRV-4406) and the United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Bertholf, focusing on improving coordination and operational interoperability during maritime emergencies.
According to the PCG, the bilateral activity covered search and rescue procedures, maritime communications, coordinated vessel maneuvering, information sharing, and emergency response operations.
The exercise also provided both coast guards an opportunity to assess existing operational procedures, identify capability gaps, and improve their ability to conduct coordinated maritime missions.
The PCG said the activity supports its continuing efforts to enhance operational readiness and strengthen cooperation with international maritime partners.
