MANILA, Aug 4 — In a deeply symbolic gesture of unity and shared purpose, the Indian and Philippine navies have launched their first-ever joint patrols in the hotly contested waters of the South China Sea. This historic cooperation began just as Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. embarked on a significant state visit to New Delhi.
Three Indian naval ships, including the powerful guided missile destroyer INS Delhi, set sail with Philippine Navy vessels on a two-day mission that reflects more than just strategy—it reflects solidarity. It is a story of two nations standing together to uphold peace, maritime law, and a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The joint patrol, which began on Sunday afternoon, marks a new chapter in regional security cooperation. Lieutenant Colonel John Paul Salgado of the Philippine military shared that operations are currently underway, including essential at-sea replenishment tasks.
This timely operation comes as the Philippines intensifies its efforts to protect its maritime sovereignty amid ongoing tensions with China, which continues to assert sweeping claims over the South China Sea—claims that have been rejected by international tribunals.
President Marcos, ahead of his visit to India, emphasized the importance of maintaining and respecting international maritime law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which protects sovereign rights within 200 nautical miles of a nation’s coast.
India and the Philippines have already taken strides in defense collaboration. Notably, the Philippines acquired the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system from India—a testament to deepening trust. During his time in India, Marcos is expected to sign various agreements related to law, culture, and technology. Yet, it is defense cooperation that observers will watch most closely.
India, a democratic pillar in Asia, has its own complex history with China, particularly along its Himalayan border. As a member of the Quad—alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia—India’s growing defense ties with the Philippines signal a wider regional effort to deter coercion and promote stability.
This joint patrol is more than a military maneuver—it is a meaningful gesture, showing that in the face of threats, nations can choose cooperation over confrontation. For the people of the Philippines and India, it offers reassurance that their leaders are actively safeguarding their future, peace, and freedom.
