Manila, April 30 -- The successful conduct of the ninth multilateral maritime cooperative activity (MMCA) between the Philippines and its allies demonstrates the "growing synergy" between partner nations, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Wednesday.

"The 9th MMCA demonstrates the growing synergy among like-minded partners in maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. These exercises are vital in strengthening our collective defense posture and operational readiness," he said in a statement.

He added that this highlights the strategic importance of the MMCA.

He said the activity also reaffirms the AFP's commitment to fostering international cooperation, maintaining maritime security, an...