The drills held off Northern Luzon were designed primarily to enhance the maritime security capabilities of both countries. The most significant was the commencement of Navy-to-Navy strategic-level talks in March 2017, co-chaired by the Deputy Chief of the Royal Australian Navy and the Vice Commander of the Philippine Navy. The current phase of the Armed Forces of the Philippines' modernization program, or Horizon 3, is primarily focused on the acquisition of equipment for its navy. Currently, the PN has seven operational commands: Naval Forces Northern Luzon, Southern Luzon, Central, West, Western Mindanao, Eastern Mindanao and Fleet-Marine Ready Force. The Navy currently has a total strength of around 27,000 officers, enlisted personnel and candidate soldiers, supported by roughly 1,500 civilian employees.

Source: Manila Times July 22, 2023 19:06 UTC