Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr. (Photo courtesy of Philippine Navy)
MANILA – The ASEAN Naval Chiefs Meeting (ANCM) has always been an effective tool for discussing major maritime issues in the region.
"ANCM has always been an effective avenue for regional cooperation particularly in tackling major maritime issues that shape not just the maritime domain but also the entire region," Philippine Navy (PN) chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr., at the 17th ANCM in Taguig City hosted by the service on Wednesday.
The PN said the ANCM is a premier meeting among naval leaders of ASEAN countries to discuss and exchange ideas about strategic steps to be taken collectively in maintaining maritime security in the Southeast Asian region.
This year's iteration was steered by the theme "Synergy At Sea: Regional Cohesion for Peace and Stability."
Adaci also said he looks forward to a fruitful session and "substantive discussions that further strengthen our relations on the seas."
The PN chief was joined in the plenary session by his counterparts from various ASEAN navies.
The plenary session included the viewpoint exchange among navy chiefs on the 17th ANCM theme.
Adaci emphasized here the importance of synergy and working collectively in ensuring a secure, peaceful and prosperous Southeast Asia as "the plethora of challenges that we face remain imminent."
The 17th ANCM approved key initiatives such as the ANCM Roadmap 2024-2032, and the Guidelines for Maritime Interaction (GMI). Also discussed were the proposed amendments in the conduct of ASEAN Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX), and the overviews of future activities as presented by those in charge.
In closing, Adaci thanked the delegates for this productive meeting and expressed high hopes for "future ASEAN activities to continue to synergize our efforts toward this security and stability within Southeast Asia.”
Hosting this event, along with the 2nd AMNEX and ASEAN Fleet Review to take place in Zambales this May 11, is an unprecedented major undertaking for the PN in demonstrating leadership and solidarity in the region.
It likewise positions the PN as an ambassador of goodwill and a catalyst of ASEAN centrality and cooperation.
Aside from the Philippines, the regional bloc is composed of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. (PNA)
