A maritime security engagement between the Philippine Navy and Royal Australian Navy kicked off in Zamboanga City Pier on Friday. Local officials and officers from the Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) welcomed the delegates of the two Australian vessels: Her Majesty Australian Ship (HMAS) Larrakia and HMAS Maitland. Four Philippine vessels will join the Australian ships: BRP Dioscoro Papa, BRP General Mariano Alvarez, BRP Davao del Sur, and BRP Emilio Liwanag. NFWM Rear Admiral Rene Medina said the joint maritime patrol will concentrate more on high-risk areas along the western Mindanao area. Medina identified these high-risk areas as the municipalities of Sibuco, Siocon and Sirawai in Zamboanga del Norte; Pearl Bank, Tawi- Tawi; Sibago Island, Basilan; Moro Gulf; and Pangutaran, Sulu. The joint patrol, which will last until December 1, is in support of the anti-terrorism and piracy campaign of the Philippine government.
Source: ABS/CBN
