Jonathan Frederic De Santos

The forecastle of HMAS Toowoomba while in the South China Sea.

The forecastle of HMAS Toowoomba while in the South China Sea. *** Local Caption *** HMAS Toowoomba sailed from Fleet Base West to carry out Regional Presence Deployment 2026-2.
Throughout RPD-26-2, Toowoomba will operate alongside regional neighbours and partners to conduct training, overcome shared security challenges, and strengthen Australia's enduring commitment to a stable and secure Indo-Pacific. 
Australia's near continuous naval presence supports a region where sovereignty is respected, internati

Article (news)

Christopher Sitson

ABS-CBN News

<div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:960px;display:block" width="960"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1771131841823634119892_1401985968623304_8216280303980634327_n.jpg" style="width:960px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" width="960"/><span class="fr-inner" style="text-align:left">The forecastle of HMAS Toowoomba while in the South China Sea. <em>Australian Defence Force Joint Operations Command photo release</em></span></span></span></div><p>MANILA — The Philippine Navy, through the Philippine Fleet, continues to strengthen its partnership with the Royal Australian Navy during the port visit of HMAS Toowoomba from February 13 until February 16, 2026 at Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.</p><p>The Australian warship arrived at Rivera Wharf, Subic Port, where it was welcomed with arrival honors. A Philippine Navy delegation led by Commander Marlon A. Paca-Anas PN, Director of the Fleet Special Services Office, formally received the ship and its crew.</p><p>During the visit, the ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Alicia Harrison, met with Philippine Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C. Orbe PN. Their discussions focused on expanding maritime</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Professional Excanges and Operational Learning</strong></div><div><br/></div><p>A key highlight of the port visit is a series of Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) conducted aboard HMAS Toowoomba. Philippine Fleet personnel are taking part in focused workshops on Replenishment at Sea (RAS) and seaworthiness.</p><p>Replenishment at Sea is a vital capability that allows ships to receive fuel, supplies, and equipment while underway. This ensures sustained operations without the need to return to port.</p><p>Training in seaworthiness, meanwhile, enhances ship safety, maintenance standards, and operational readiness.</p><p>These exchanges allow both navies to share best practices, align procedures, and strengthen their ability to operate together effectively during real-world <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/world/2025/8/29/ph-australia-push-back-vs-china-s-troublemaker-instigator-claims-in-south-china-sea-1535"> PH, Australia push back vs China’s ‘troublemaker, instigator’ claims in South China Sea</a> <a href="https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/world/2025/8/29/ph-australia-push-back-vs-china-s-troublemaker-instigator-claims-in-south-china-sea-1535"></a></p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Preparing for Exercise KAKADU</strong></div><div><br/></div><p>The engagement also supports preparations for Exercise Kakadu, one of the largest multilateral maritime exercises hosted by Australia.</p><p>Exercise Kakadu brings together navies from across the Indo-Pacific region to conduct coordinated training in maritime security operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, surface and air warfare drills, and maritime interdiction operations.</p><p>Through participation in activities related to Exercise Kakadu, the Philippine Navy gains valuable experience operating alongside regional and international partners in complex, multinational environments. This contributes to improved readiness and reinforces the country’s role in promoting peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>Shared Commitment to Maritime Security</strong></div><div> </div><p>The port visit of HMAS Toowoomba highlights the strong and growing partnership between the Philippine Navy and the Royal Australian Navy. Through professional exchanges, joint training, and participation in multilateral exercises, both forces continue to enhance cooperation, operational effectiveness, and their shared commitment to maintaining a secure and stable maritime domain.</p>

<p>The Philippine Navy, through the Philippine Fleet, continues to strengthen its partnership with the Royal Australian Navy during the port visit of HMAS Toowoomba from February 13 until February 16, 2026 at Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.</p>

The Philippine Navy, through the Philippine Fleet, continues to strengthen its partnership with the Royal Australian Navy during the port visit of HMAS Toowoomba from February 13 until February 16, 2026 at Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales.

Australian navy ship arrives in PH to enhance bilateral defense ties

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Australian navy ship arrives in PH to enhance bilateral defense ties

Christopher Sitson,

ABS-CBN News

Published Feb 15, 2026 01:19 PM PHT

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Updated Feb 15, 2026 01:30 PM PHT

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Maritime

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Defense

West Philippines Sea

Philippine Navy

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