The Philippines and Australia strengthened their bilateral partnership in maritime security through a five-day program on maritime law enforcement (MLE).

In a statement on Tuesday, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) said the PCG CO/XO Designate Course on Maritime Law Enforcement Module was in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s guidance to strengthen interagency cooperation, bilateral partnership, enhance maritime security capacity, and uphold the rule of law in Philippine waters.

The program was organized by the PCG, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), and the Australian National Center for Ocean Resources and Security (ANCORS).

“The five-day program was designed to provide PCG commanding officers and executive officers with a practitioner-focused and operations-oriented introduction and refresher on key legal issues surrounding MLE,” it said.

It covered several topics, including international maritime laws and conventions, law enforcement in maritime zones, and the rule on the use of force in maritime operations.

It was held in Manila from Sept. 22 to 26, 2025, and featured lectures from professors Stuart Kaye and Robert McLaughlin from the University of Wollongong, Australia, who emphasized the value of regional practice sharing and scenario-based exercises in any maritime challenges.

In addition, PCG Captain Jomark Angue shared his firsthand experience aboard a ship, illustrating how to respond effectively to real threats, ensuring crew safety while accomplishing the mission.

PCG Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil Gavan, and Australian Ambassador to the Philippines, His Excellency Marc Innes-Brown, were present during the program’s closing ceremony. (PNA)