Philippines and Indonesia Conclude 37th Coordinated Patrol, Strengthen Maritime Security

Davao City – The 37th Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) between the Philippines and Indonesia, known as PHILINDO, concluded on November 14, with a commitment from both nations to strengthen the monitoring of their maritime borders. The Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) announced the culmination of the patrol, which aims to enhance interoperability and secure the maritime borders against piracy, illegal crossing, and other transnational crimes.

According to Philippines News Agency, this year’s CORPAT included four joint patrol legs between the Indonesian and Philippine Navies, starting with the sea phase on March 16-17, followed by an opening ceremony in Manado City, Indonesia, and subsequent legs in September and November. The final sea phase, from November 10-14, saw participation from the BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS-37) of the Philippine Navy and KRI TONGKOL-813 of the Indonesian Navy. The event concluded with a closing ceremony hosted by Eastmincom at the Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) Mess Hall. NFEM commander, Commodore Carlos Sabarre, highlighted the strengthened cooperation and relationship between the two countries. First Admiral TNI Teguh Prasetya of the Indonesian Navy also emphasized the patrol’s contribution to a stronger partnership. Notable accomplishments of this year’s CORPAT include the repatriation of six Filipinos from Indonesia and the interception of a fishing vessel carrying smuggled cigarettes off Balut Island, Sarangani.