QUEZON CITY, (PIA) --In line with the country’s hosting of the second ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX) later this year, the Philippine Navy (PN) hosted the final planning conference on January 17, at The Heritage Hotel in Pasay City.

A basic training plan that will direct the staging of this naval exercise aimed at advancing interoperability and seamless execution among ASEAN naval forces was developed at the conference by navy representatives from ASEAN member countries Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

PN's Fleet Marine Ready Force (FMRF) commander, Brigadier General Edwin Amadar, acting as the Officer Conducting Exercise, praised the strong attendance and dedication of international delegations in his message, which have demonstrated their ongoing support and cooperation toward a productive collaboration.

“It is a great privilege to the PH Navy to be given the opportunity to host the 2nd AMNEX. I assure you that PH will never run out of things to do, from culture, traditions, and scenery,” the Commander FMRF said.

Also, my sincerest gratitude to the people who have worked so hard for these activities to be possible. I am also grateful for the support and participation of our ASEAN counterparts towards our mutual efforts in securing our seas and maritime domain,” he added.

The 17th ASEAN Navy Chiefs' Meeting and the 2nd AMNEX are both to be hosted by the PN this year. The Royal Thai Navy submitted the idea for the said exercise during the 8th ANCM in 2014, and the first exercise was held in 2017. Interoperability, responsiveness, and readiness are its three main pillars in order to address common regional maritime concerns.

This endeavor represents the PN's resolve to forge closer ties, deepen understanding, and foster cooperation in the direction of a peaceful and stable ASEAN region. (pn/pia-ncr)