Manila/New Delhi: In a powerful display of regional maritime engagement, three frontline Indian Naval warships INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan concluded their operational port call at Manila, Philippines, as part of their ongoing deployment to Southeast Asia. Under the command of Rear Admiral Susheel Menon, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet (FOCEF), the deployment marks a major step in advancing India’s maritime diplomacy in the Indo-Pacific.
The Eastern Fleet’s port visit was capped with a high-intensity bilateral maritime exercise with the Philippine Navy from 30 July to 4 August 2025, reinforcing operational synergy and shared strategic priorities.
Strategic Conversations at the Helm
Rear Admiral Susheel Menon held high-level discussions with key defence leaders of the Philippines, including:
- Rear Admiral Joe Anthony C Orbe, Commander, Philippine Fleet
- Lt Gen Jimmy D Larida, Vice Chief of Staff, Armed Forces of the Philippines
- Undersecretary Ignacio B. Madriaga, Strategic Assessment and Planning
- Vice Admiral Edger Ybanez, Deputy Commandant for Operations, Philippine Coast Guard
These engagements emphasized a mutual commitment to upholding a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, while reaffirming shared interests in regional peace, stability, and maritime cooperation.
Strengthening Bonds Beyond the Deck
A formal deck reception hosted aboard INS Shakti facilitated deeper interaction between the Indian and Philippine leadership. The reception was attended by Ambassador of India to the Philippines, Harsh Kumar Jain, along with senior naval and government officials. The event showcased India’s naval hospitality and strengthened diplomatic goodwill.
Further reinforcing people-to-people ties, Indian Navy personnel visited the Friendship Home Father Luis Amigó Orphanage in Manila. The heartwarming outreach highlighted the human dimension of military diplomacy, promoting compassion and cultural connection.
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Operational and Professional Synergy
The bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and Philippine Navy included both harbour and sea phases:
- Harbour Phase (30 July – 2 August):
- Subject Matter Expert Exchanges
- Operational planning discussions
- Cross-deck visits
- Sea Phase (3 – 4 August):
- Anti-air warfare drills
- Anti-surface and anti-submarine exercises
- Tactical manoeuvres and communication drills
These exercises demonstrated high levels of coordination and interoperability, enhancing tactical cooperation and mutual understanding between the two navies.
Cultural and Community Connect
In a move to deepen local engagement, the Indian warships welcomed Philippine Navy personnel, students, government officials, and members of the Indian diaspora aboard for guided tours. These interactions highlighted the professionalism, technological capability, and openness of the Indian Navy.
Friendly sports fixtures between personnel of both navies also added a vibrant, informal dimension building camaraderie, mutual respect, and lasting friendships beyond formal uniforms.
A Maritime Milestone in India–Philippines Ties
This port call to Manila represents more than just naval movement, it marks a strategic milestone in India–Philippines defence ties. Through joint drills, professional exchanges, cultural diplomacy, and humanitarian outreach, the Indian Navy has reaffirmed its role as a reliable maritime partner in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s Eastern Fleet continues to strengthen regional cooperation, operational readiness, and trust-driven diplomacy advancing a shared vision for peace and prosperity across the maritime domain.
