U.S., PHL, and Japan conclude ‘Sama Sama’ activity

MANILA —Maritime forces from Japan, Philippines, and the United States concluded Maritime Training Activity Sama Sama in Puerto Princesa, Oct. 21.

The week-long exercise involved sailors, coast guardsmen and Marines from the U.S. and Philippine militaries, as well as sailors from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

Now in its third year, MTA Sama Sama is designed to promote regional security cooperation, maintain and strengthen maritime partnerships, and enhance maritime interoperability.

“I could not be more proud of what we accomplished together,” said Capt. Ann McAnn, deputy commodore, Destroyer Squadron 7. “The time and resources invested here will pay dividends. While the exercise has ended, the skills, the knowledge and the relationships built here will only grow in value over time.”

This year marked the first time the JMSDF participated alongside U.S. and Philippine navy counterparts during MTA Sama Sama.

The exercise featured both shore-based and at-sea activities designed to allow participating nations to advance complex maritime training utilizing diverse naval platforms and operating areas.

Participating U.S. Navy assets include the littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8), the Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3), the Safeguard-class salvage ship USNS Salvor (ARS 52), the Legend-class cutter USCG Stratton (VMSL 752) and a P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

For more than 70 years U.S. and Philippine forces have renewed our friendship, partnership, and alliance through bilateral military exchanges and exercises.