Philippine Navy conducts first live-fire drills in Bajo de Masinloc

The Philippine Navy's Philippine Fleet conducted its first-ever simultaneous unilateral and gunnery exercises in Bajo de Masinloc on Monday, March 10, to enhance warfighting capabilities and readiness for humanitarian assistance and disaster response.

Despite rough seas, the guided missile frigate BRP Jose Rizal (FF150), offshore patrol vessel BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS16), and pioneering landing dock BRP Tarlac (LD601) participated in maneuvering and radio communication drills.

The exercises included live fire drills southeast of Bajo de Masinloc, with the BRP Jose Rizal firing its Oto Melara Super Rapid 76mm main gun and the BRP Ramon Alcaraz using its .50 caliber secondary weapons to simulate surface targets.

Rear Adm. Joe Anthony Orbe emphasized that these activities improved coordination, precision, and strategic agility among naval assets, enhancing their overall operational performance.

These exercises not only sharpened the skills and effectiveness of participating naval assets but also bolstered the fleet's readiness for both military operations and humanitarian efforts.