FORT BONIFACIO, Taguig City – The Marine Aviation Support Activity 2023 (MASA 2023) officially kicked off today in an opening ceremony held at Philippine Navy Officers’ Clubhouse, Naval Station Jose Francisco.
MASA 23 is part of the bilaterally approved PH-US MDB-SEB activity list for CY 2023 that aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Philippine Navy and United States Marine Corps Forces Pacific (USMARFORPAC), Philippine Air Force and Naval Air Wing-PN.
The bilateral exercise will be conducted from July 06-21, 2023, and will be held at various exercise areas in the NOLCOM, WESCOM, and VISCOM Joint Operations Areas (JOAs), with aviation assets from USMC, USAF, PAF, and NAW.
The Flag Officer-In-Command, Philippine Navy, VADM Toribio D Adaci Jr PN, conveyed his message through MGen Jonas R Lumawag PN(M), The Naval Inspector General, PN, “This bilateral exercise reflects the mutual trust, respect, and cooperation between our forces as we unite with the purpose to safeguard our nations and promote regional security. With 2,711 personnel and 43 air assets, the Philippine Marine Corps and US Marine Corps have displayed their resolute determination to ensure our forces are ready, capable, and prepared for any challenge that may arise.”
This exercise unites the Philippine Marine Corps and the US Marine Corps in bilateral engagements and training, demonstrating a commitment to cooperation and reinforcing the foundation of mutual respect and friendship.
“This year we are back again as a testament to the enduring alliance shared between the U.S. and the Philippines to enhance the combined and joint interoperability between nations in conducting tactical and heliborne operations. Over the coming days, we will engage in invaluable training, which will further strengthen our collective defense capabilities” said Col Brendan P Sullivan USMC, Commanding Officer, Marine Rotational Force – Darwin
The said exercise will strengthen the longstanding partnership between the PMC and the USMC, showcasing their shared commitment to regional stability, mutual learning, and the development of enduring relationships.
“Aviation-supported operations require a high degree of coordination, precision, and synchronization. These exercises provide an invaluable opportunity for our Marines to familiarize themselves with the complexities of joint operations, enabling seamless integration of our aviation assets to support ground forces. Through joint and combined training like MASA, we refine our ability to maximize the advantages offered by our aircraft, enhancing our collective combat power and effectiveness” said MGen Arturo G Rojas PN(M), Commandant, Philippine Marine Corps.
It demonstrates the power of cooperation, forges stronger ties, and fosters mutual respect between the PMC and the USMC that aims to develop deeper bonds and forge relationships that will endure beyond this exercise.
“MASA 23 brings together not only the PMC and USMC but also the United States Air Force, and other major services of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This exercise provides a unique opportunity for us to engage in cooperative training, share expertise, and further deepen the bonds of friendship that have been forged over years of joint operations” said BGen Jimmy D Larida PN(M), Director, Exercise Directorate Headquarters.
Also, this exercise aims to improve our interoperability, allowing us to operate seamlessly and effectively in joint operations. By aligning our procedures, tactics, and communications, we enhance our combined capabilities and readiness, leading to a more synchronized response to evolving challenges.
The main objective of this exercise is to enhance the capabilities of the combined forces in conducting aviation-supported operations through the conduct of joint and combined training and exercises that will develop proficiency in undertaking aviation-related tasks in the accomplishment of the PMC and AFP mission.
