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Japanese destroyer JS Ikazuchi docks in Davao City for three-day port call

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NAVAL Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) formally welcomed a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Murasame-class destroyer at Sasa Port here on Saturday, May 30, marking another key engagement in naval diplomacy between the two partner nations.

The visiting vessel, JS Ikazuchi (DD-107), arrived in the city as part of Japan’s ongoing Indo-Pacific Deployment (IPD) mission. The port call in Davao City would be three days.

According to NFEM commander, Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, the routine port call serves a dual purpose: reinforcing maritime goodwill while allowing the Japanese warship to undergo crucial refueling and replenishment of supplies before proceeding to its next operational engagements.

NFEM officials emphasized that the arrival of the JS Ikazuchi highlights a mutual defense posture aimed at safeguarding regional waters.

“The activity underscored the shared commitment of the Philippine Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force in promoting regional stability, maritime security, and cooperative presence within the Indo-Pacific area,” the NFEM Public Affairs Office said.

Local naval authorities added that the port call continues to reinforce longstanding bilateral relations between Manila and Tokyo, showcasing the role of naval diplomacy in fostering professional exchanges and technical interoperability between the two partner fleets.

The port call comes on the heels of increasing maritime security cooperation between the Philippines and Japan, as both democratic nations navigate complex security dynamics in the defense sector.

Commissioned in March 2001, the JS Ikazuchi is classified as a Murasame-class destroyer, the seventh ship in the fleet of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. Its homeport is in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, Japan.

The JS Ikazuchi is expected to depart Davao City once its logistics replenishment is completed to continue its deployment across the Indo-Pacific corridor. 

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PH, Indonesian navies conduct joint drills to boost maritime border security

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE PHILIPPINE Navy and the Indonesian Navy staged a series of bilateral at-sea maneuvers along the two nations’ maritime boundary to strengthen border security and counter shared maritime threats, according to the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM).

The naval drills, held on May 25, 2026, marked the second day of the Coordinated Border Patrol Philippines-Indonesia (CORPAT PHILINDO-40-2026), according to the NFEM.

Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, commander of NFEM, said the bilateral patrol aims to enhance tactical interoperability and foster closer maritime security cooperation between the two neighboring Southeast Asian countries.

During the joint operations, the Philippine Navy’s offshore patrol vessel BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) maneuvered alongside the Indonesian Navy vessel KRI Selar (879) to execute various high-readiness sea serials.

According to Lieutenant Commander Reynante L. Villela, NFEM public affairs officer, the participating naval crews successfully completed coordinated communication exercises, Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAP), and semaphore signaling exercises (SEMAPHOREX). 

The drills are designed to streamline operational communication and tactical readiness during real-world border security contingencies.

The maritime operations were heavily supported from the air, with a Philippine Air Force C-208B aircraft conducting an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) mission over the shared borders to provide real-time situational awareness to the surface vessels.

Military officials emphasized that the CORPAT PHILINDO framework remains a vital mechanism in promoting mutual trust while reinforcing both Manila and Jakarta’s commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and maritime order in their volatile southern waters.

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NFEM deploys BRP Artemio Ricarte for joint border patrols with Indonesia

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NAVAL Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) officially deployed the offshore patrol corvette BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) on Sunday to secure the country’s southern maritime boundaries alongside the Indonesian Navy.

The send-off ceremony, held at Captain Feranil Pier inside Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, marks the commencement of the second leg of the Coordinated Patrol Philippines-Indonesia (CORPAT PHILINDO-40-2026).

Authorized by NFEM commander Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, the bilateral deployment focuses heavily on the shared maritime borders between the two Southeast Asian neighbors—a critical sea lane heavily susceptible to transnational crime.

According to naval public affairs officer LCDR Reynante L. Villela, the BRP Artemio Ricarte will represent the country in the joint border sweeps to maintain a constant naval presence and deter security threats.

The CORPAT PHILINDO is a long-standing, quarterly bilateral framework designed to strengthen communication protocols, foster mutual trust, and sharpen tactical interoperability between the two navies.

Naval officials emphasized that the joint maneuvers are vital to mounting a synchronized, rapid response against piracy, smuggling, illegal fishing, terrorist infiltration, and other unlawful seaborne activities along the porous border zone.

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3 arrested as ₱3.7-M in smuggled cigarettes intercepted off Davao Occidental

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

A TOTAL of P3.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes were seized by the joint inter-agency maritime operation from a motorized vessel carrying contraband in the coastal waters of Sarangani, Davao Occidental.

The operation, executed on Monday, May 18, 2026, was spearheaded by the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao in coordination with the Sarangani Maritime Police Station, Bureau of Customs, the Regional Intelligence Division XI, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group XI.

Maritime operatives flagged down the motorized banca, identified as M/B Bahitrah, after monitoring its “suspicious movements.”

According to the report authorized by NFEM commander Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, the vessel actively attempted to evade government forces before being cornered and boarded by law enforcement personnel.

A subsequent onboard inspection revealed a haul of 228 boxes of undocumented cigarettes bearing the brand name Gajah Baru.

The total street value of the confiscated contraband is pegged at exactly ₱3,722,800.Three crew members aboard the vessel were immediately apprehended.

Authorities identified the suspects as Edwin, 57 years old, Adubert, 39 years old, and Roger, 47 years oldAll three individuals are listed as residents of General Santos City.

Following the interception, the suspects, the seized contraband, and the M/B Bahitrah were escorted to the NFEM headquarters in Panacan, Davao City.

The confiscated cigarettes and the motorized vessel have been turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition and seizure proceedings.

Meanwhile, the three suspects are temporarily detained at the Sasa Police Station as prosecutors finalize the filing of smuggling and regulatory law violation charges.

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P52-M worth of cigarettes intercepted off Davao Oriental

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

AN INTER-AGENCY maritime operation intercepted a motor banca loaded with approximately P52 million worth of undocumented cigarettes off the coast of Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, at around 7 a.m. on May 1, 2026.

The Naval Task Force 71 (NTF71) of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) and PNP Regional Maritime Unit XI intercepted the vessel, identified as M/B Bukal, after it failed to respond to standard maritime challenge procedures around 8.5 nautical miles northwest of Governor Poblacion, Generoso.

Authorities discovered 1,246 master cases of illicit cigarettes during the visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) operation. 

Preliminary investigation indicated that the contraband originated from Jolo, Sulu, reportedly owned by a certain Latip Saipol.

The seven Filipino crew members on board were immediately taken into custody.

Following the interception, the vessel was escorted to the Captain Feranil Pier at Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City. 

A thorough inventory and documentation process was subsequently conducted by the Naval Special Operations Unit 7, PNP Regional Maritime Unit XI, Police Station 4 (Sasa) of the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), and the Bureau of Internal Revenue Region No. 19.

“This successful operation highlights the sustained commitment of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao and its partner agencies to strengthen maritime law enforcement, combat smuggling activities, and ensure the security of the country’s maritime domain,” said Commodore Ireneo D. Battung PN, commander of the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.

The seized contraband and the vessel have been officially turned over to the BIR for appropriate disposition. 

Meanwhile, the apprehended crew members are currently under the custody of Police Station 4 in Sasa, facing charges for violating Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) of 2016, in relation to Executive Order No. 245.

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NFEM’s Sea Mission brings medical aid to remote barangay in Dinagat island

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NAVAL Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) conducted its Civil-Military Operations (CMO) from the Sea in Barangay Carmen, Loreto, Dinagat Island, on Friday, April 24.

Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, commander of NFEM, led the strategic initiative, which utilized naval assets to transport essential government services to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) within the province.

The mission provided free medical and dental services to a total of 1,804 residents, addressing critical healthcare gaps in the island community.

The outreach was a joint effort involving the Civil Military Operations Unit–Eastern Mindanao, the Provincial Government of Dinagat Islands, and the local government of Loreto.

Non-government partners, including the Davao Advent Mission and medical personnel from Camp Panacan Hospital, also joined the fleet to ensure the delivery of comprehensive care.

“This mission underscores our commitment not just to maritime defense, but to humanitarian assistance and active community engagement,” the NFEM stated. 

In addition to medical consultations, the Navy facilitated community relations activities, including the distribution of food packs and gift-giving for pre-identified beneficiaries.

The “CMO from the Sea” framework is designed to project a “mission-oriented presence” in areas that are difficult to reach by land, ensuring that residents in the furthest reaches of Eastern Mindanao feel the presence of the national government.

Authorities confirmed that the high turnout of nearly 2,000 residents highlights the continued need for mobile government interventions in remote island clusters.

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Coast Guard Vice Admiral Echeverria visits NFEM ahead of retirement 

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

VICE ADMIRAL Roy Abitria Echeverria conducted a testimonial visit to Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) and the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) on Monday, Feb. 9, marking one of his final official engagements before his upcoming retirement.

The visit served as both a gesture of gratitude and a reaffirmation of the long-standing cooperation between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Philippine Navy—partnerships strengthened throughout his years in maritime operations, humanitarian response, inter-agency coordination, and information sharing.

During his remarks, Echeverria expressed appreciation for the hospitality extended by NFEM commander Commodore Ireneo Battung, noting that Eastern Mindanao has been a defining chapter of his service. 

Having been assigned to various stations across the region—many of them in demanding environments—he recalled the strong inter-service camaraderie forged in Mindanao. 

Echeverria and Battung were classmates from the PMA “Maalab” Class of 1993.

“This visit is meaningful to me,” Echeverria said. “Mindanao shaped my character as an officer. It is where I learned resilience, teamwork, and mission focus—values I carried throughout my career. As I prepare to retire, it is only fitting to return and thank those who have been partners in safeguarding our seas and communities.”

Battung, together with NFEM officers and personnel, rendered battalion-sized honors followed by a simple reception recognizing Echeverria’s contributions to joint maritime efforts, interoperability, and engagements with allied nations such as Australia, the United States, and the European Union. 

After the NFEM visit, Echeverria proceeded to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao, his former command, where he was welcomed by its current commander, Commodore Philipps Soria.

Throughout his decades-long career, Echeverria served in both shore and shipboard assignments and commanded multiple Coast Guard stations across Mindanao—Zamboanga, Jolo, Tawi-Tawi, Cotabato, General Santos, and Davao, among others. 

He also served as commander of Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM) from 2018 to 2020.

His leadership emphasized integrity, operational excellence, and mission accomplishment while staying grounded and true to one’s principles.

As he enters retirement, Echeverria highlighted gratitude, the friendships formed along the way, and a profound sense of fulfillment. “My heart is full of thanks, only gratitude,” he shared. “It was very fulfilling. I’ve done things mostly on my own terms and served with a full heart.”

Echeverria, who now resides in Davao City with his family, is scheduled to retire later this month at the headquarters of the Philippine Coast Guard in Manila.

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Navy intercepts vessel with P48-M in smuggled cigarettes off Davao de Oro

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE NAVAL Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) intercepted a motorboat carrying ₱44 million worth of undocumented cigarettes off the coast of Pantukan, Davao de Oro, around 7:40 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 15.

The operation was carried out by BA491 of the 3rd Boat Attack Division, which is under the operational control of Naval Task Force 71. Operatives used a Mini-Typhoon MGS camera system to spot a suspicious vessel, later identified as M/B QAISAR , moving three nautical miles northwest of Pantukan.

The camera footage revealed a large cargo covered in canvas, prompting an immediate interception.

Upon boarding the vessel, the Navy discovered 1,118 boxes of undocumented cigarettes. The 13 Filipino crew members onboard were detained.

During the initial investigation, the vessel’s master admitted that the shipment originated from Jolo, Sulu. The plan was to offload the contraband onto smaller motor bancas at sea to be smuggled into various municipalities in Davao de Oro and surrounding areas.

This “mother ship” to “small craft” transfer is a common tactic used by smuggling syndicates to evade detection at major ports, the Navy said.

Following the seizure, the Navy’s Special Operations Unit 7 (NAVSOU7) placed a “prize crew” on the M/B QAISAR to escort it to the Captain Feranil Pier at Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Panacan, Davao City.

All 13 crew members were brought to Camp Panacan Station Hospital for mandatory medical evaluation before facing a charge for violations of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and Executive Order No. 245. Meanwhile, the contraband was turned over to the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

Commodore Ireneo D. Battung, commander of NFEM, said the successful operation underscores the Navy’s commitment to securing the maritime domain and disrupting illegal trade routes that rob the government of needed revenues.

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BRP Alberto Navarette secures Mindanao’s eastern waters

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE PHILIPPINE Navy vessel BRP Alberto Navarette (PC 394) conducted sustained Littoral Combat Patrol Operations across key maritime areas in Eastern Mindanao from Dec. 16 to 23, 2025.

Operating under the control of Joint Task Force Sinaya, the mission aimed to ensure maritime security, uphold navigation safety, and maintain a visible naval presence along vital sea lanes.

According to Lt. Commander Reynante Vilela, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) public affairs officer, the patrol covered Davao Gulf (vicinity of Samal Island), Sarangani Bay, and the coastal waters off Maasim, Kiamba, and Maitum. 

The vessel also monitored Macajalar, Gingoog, and Butuan Bays, along with their surrounding approaches. These security efforts are part of JTF Sinaya’s ongoing mandate to deter maritime threats, particularly during the holiday season when maritime traffic and activity are heightened.

Beyond its security mandate, BRP Alberto Navarette also carried out a holiday initiative dubbed “Regalong Handog ng Hukbong Dagat” (Gift Giving at Sea).

The initiative, conducted in the spirit of the Yuletide season, aimed to strengthen civil-military relations by providing holiday gift packs to local fisherfolk encountered during the patrol operations.

The dual-purpose mission highlights the Philippine Navy’s commitment to both safeguarding maritime domains and fostering goodwill with the coastal communities across Eastern Mindanao.

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Philippine, French navies conclude joint maritime drill off Davao Oriental

by Rhoda Grace Saron
written by Rhoda Grace Saron

THE EASTERN Mindanao Command (EastMinCom), in coordination with the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM), took part in the Philippines–France Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity, concluded the two-day Bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity with the French Navy on Nov. 28, 2025, approximately 16 nautical miles east of Luban Point, Mati, Davao Oriental.

The cooperative engagement, which aimed to strengthen maritime cooperation, enhance interoperability, and promote mutual understanding between the two naval forces, saw the inclusion of air assets on its final day, according to Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.

Intensified at-sea exercises

The second day of the activity was marked by a series of at-sea serials as the French Navy vessel transited through Philippine archipelagic waters.

 The PN vessel BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37), operating under JTF Sinaya, executed complex drills alongside its French counterpart.

Key exercises included:Maneuvering Exercise (MANNEX), Replenishment-at-Sea Approach (RASAP), and Ship Control Approach (SCA).

Air assets boost maritime awareness

A significant addition to the final day’s activities was the participation of air assets from the Philippine Air Force.

 A Black Hawk helicopter and the NV392 of JTF Sinaya joined the cooperative activity prior to the execution of the RASAP.

“Moreover, the Philippine Air Force’s Black Hawk and NV392 of JTF Sinaya joined the activity prior to the execution of RASAP, intensifying maritime domain awareness and interoperability,” Lt Commander Reynante Vilela, the Public Affairs Office chief of NFEM.

The successful completion of these exercises officially marked the end of the cooperative engagement between the Philippines and France.

The activity was overseen by Commodore Ireneo D. Battung PN, Commander of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.

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