The first-ever unified execution of three different in-service exercises of the Philippine Navy (PN) officially began on board the BRP Tarlac (LD601), which is docked at the Naval Operating Base (NOB) Subic in Zambales.
The ceremony that formally kicked off the integrated conduct of Exercise Pagbubuklod, Pagsasama, and Pagsisikap 2024 was led by the newly-installed Philippine Fleet (PF) Commander, Rear Adm. Joe Anthony C. Orbe. These exercises are the respective annual unilateral exercises of the PF, Fleet-Marine Ready Force, and PN reservists.
In his remarks, Rear Adm. Orbe urged every participating unit to treat each exercise “as if it is the real thing, the real world.”
“As the Commander of the Philippine Fleet and concurrently the officer conducting the exercise, I would like for us to maximize all the learnings and experiences, identify the gaps, test our doctrines, and improve. It is the only way to move forward,” he added.
A series of exercises will be conducted both in-port and at sea, starting with in-port/harbor activities such as Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs), Tabletop Exercises (TTX), and Mission Planning.
These will be followed by Field Training Exercises (FTX) and at-sea events, where participants will execute the plans developed during the earlier planning and in-port phases.
The commencement of Exercise Pagbubuklod, Pagsisikap, and Pagsasama 2024 marks a significant step in enhancing the operational readiness and interoperability of the Philippine Fleet.
This year’s iteration reinforces the Fleet’s proficiency and aims to strengthen the capabilities of the Philippine Navy in addressing evolving maritime challenges.
