The Canadian Armed Forces today issued the following statement regarding Canada's participation in a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity this week in the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone:
"Australia, Canada, the Philippines, and the United States have completed a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA), upholding the right to freedom of navigation, overflight, and other lawful uses of the sea within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone.
"This MCA was conducted by His Majesty's Canadian Ship Ville de Québec, His Majesty's Australian Ship Brisbane, and the Philippine Navy's ship BRP Jose Rizal, with support from P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force and the United States Navy.
"The naval and air force units of participating nations operated together, enhancing our interoperability and cooperation. The MCA was conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and with due regard to the safety of navigation.
"Canada has participated in MCAs with Australia, the Philippines, and the United States in the past, most recently in 2024. In February 2025, Canada conducted an MCA with the Philippines and the United States.
"Ultimately, Canada's involvement in MCAs further strengthens our role as a regional security partner, promoting peace, resilience and stability in the region."
