BRP Ramon Alcaraz Back Home after KAKADU

After more than a month long deployment the Philippine Navy’s BRP Ramon Alcaraz PF (16) that participated in the multilateral naval exercise “KAKADU 2014” arrived to Manila, Philippines on Saturday.

The crews of PF 16, and Augusta Westland PNH 431 helicopter, as well as the medical team and exercise directorate members were honoured for their participation in enhancing their surface warfare capability through constant training and enhanced interoperability with regional navies through their collaboration with other foreign navies.

This is the second time the PN has sent its ship to participate since the exercise began way back in 1993. The first time was in 1999. PN observers were also sent in 2003, 2005 and 2007.

Along her way to the Philippines, PF 16 visited Surabaya, Indonesia on Sept. 16, 2014 for a 3-day port visit to promote naval diplomacy, camaraderie and foster goodwill with Indonesian Navy.

Following its visit, PF 16 arrived in Zamboanga City on Sept. 22, 2014 for a “Show the Flag” mission which aims to uplift the sense of patriotism and bring national pride.

On her way from Zamboanga to Manila, PF16 had a Passing Exercise (PASSEX) for the second time around with a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) vessel JDS Hatakaze (DDG-171) in vicinity of Bajo de Masinloc.

PN’s participation in Exercise “KAKADU 2014” had laid down an opportunity for the PN to enhance cooperation, collaboration, camaraderie, and good working relationship with the participating navies, to promote regional interoperability, and enhance capability among the participating navies.

Exercise “KAKADU 2014” conducted from Aug. 25, to Sept. 12, 2014 at Northern Australia Exercise Area is one of the largest international maritime exercises hosted biennially by the Royal Australian Navy.

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Press Release, September 30, 2014; Image: Philippine Navy