- GILBERT BAYORAN
Joint navy military exercises among the Philippines, United States, and Australia troops are expected to commence anytime in the southernmost areas of Negros Island.
The Philippine government has implemented a “No Sail Zone” within the 62-square nautical miles of Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, from Oct. 11 to 18, due to the “live fire activities”, in line with the joint military exercises.
In a memorandum issued by the PNP Regional Maritime Unit 7, commanding officer, P/Col. Carlito Mantala, alerted local government units, from Basay, Negros Oriental to Dumaguete City, to ensure that the LGUs are fully aware of the naval live fire exercises, and encouraged them to avoid the sea waters, from Basay to Sipalay City.
Mayor Daph Anthony Reliquias of Hinoba-an has issued a warning against fishermen from entering the 62-square nautical miles to avoid any accident.
“This year’s joint exercise shall undoubtedly reinforce the long-standing alliance and friendship among our respective nations while opening broad avenues to complement our joint regional security efforts and advance our maritime capabilities,” AFP chief of staff, Gen. Bartolome Vicente Bacarro, said in a statement.
The naval exercises are usually conducted separately but these were held simultaneously this year.
A total of 742 personnel will join the MTA “Sama-Sama” and “Lumbas” 2022, including the AFP’s Naval Reserve Force.
This year’s naval exercises include capability-enhancement events to address non-traditional concerns such as territorial defense, natural and man-made disasters, terrorism, and transnational crimes./GB
