Philippine, Japan coast guards to conduct anti-piracy exercise near Corregidor

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 17, 2026

Photo Courtesy: PCG

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and Japan Coast Guard are set to conduct a joint anti-piracy exercise near Corregidor Island on Sunday, October 18, as the two countries strengthen cooperation in maritime security.

The drill will involve Japan Coast Guard patrol vessel Shikishima, which arrived in Manila on Friday for a three-day port visit, alongside two Philippine Coast Guard multi-role response vessels measuring 97 meters and 44 meters long.

PCG Commodore Algier Ricafrente, director of the Coast Guard Strategic Studies and International Affairs Center, said the activity is part of ongoing efforts to deepen regional cooperation and improve coordination between the two maritime agencies.

The Japanese vessel arrived at Pier 15 in Manila at around 3 p.m. on Friday, following its participation in the 24th Regional Marine Pollution Exercise 2026 in Bitung and Manado, Indonesia, held from October 8 to 12.

During the visit, Japanese coast guard personnel also made courtesy calls and met with PCG officials, while some Philippine personnel were given an opportunity to tour the visiting vessel.

The joint exercise is expected to demonstrate the two agencies’ ability to coordinate responses to piracy and other maritime security threats. It also builds on longstanding cooperation between Manila and Tokyo in maritime law enforcement and operational training.

The Shikishima is scheduled to leave the Philippines after the exercise on Sunday.