By Mark Navales
Cotabato City - The Marine Exercise (MAREX) conducted in Central Mindanao began on March 31 and will run through April 11, 2025. This historic event marks a significant milestone in the PH-US defense partnership and is part of the Philippines-United States Mutual Defense Board – Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) 2025. MAREX 2025 aims to enhance interoperability between the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC) in key military operations.
The Philippine Navy (PN), through the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC), in collaboration with the USMC under Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 25.3, officially launched the Marine Exercise 2025 (MAREX25) Held at Camp Iranun, Sitio Bombaran, Brgy. Togaig, Barira, Maguindanao Del Norte (a former MILF Camp Abubakar),
BGen. Romulo D. Quemado II, PN (M), Commander of the 1st Marine Brigade, formally opened MAREX 2025, marking the start of this significant bilateral exercise. In his address, he emphasized that MAREX 2025 is a crucial step in strengthening the Philippines’ defense capabilities and deepening the long-standing alliance with the United States.
“This training will enhance the operational effectiveness of both forces and further solidify their partnership in addressing security challenges. Additionally, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEEs) and Combined Field Training Exercises (FTX) will cover essential topics such as Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC), Urban and Jungle Operations, Logistics, Marksmanship, and Planning and Orders Development for our soldiers,” BGen. Quemado said.
Major General Donald M. Gumiran, Commander of the 6th Infantry (Kampilan) Division and Joint Task Force Central, also attended the opening ceremony as the guest of honor and speaker. He highlighted the importance of joint operations.
“Interoperability is key. It is not enough to be skilled individually—we must be able to operate seamlessly with our counterparts, whether from the Philippine Marine Corps or allied forces. MAREX 2025 offers an invaluable opportunity to exchange knowledge, refine coordination, and enhance the Littoral Response Group Concept,” MGen. Gumiran stated.
MAREX 2025 will focus on maritime security operations in the littorals, amphibious assault operations, mechanized infantry operations, littoral live-fire exercises, and special operations, including surface force insertion within the 1st Marine Brigade and Joint Task Force Central’s Joint Area of Operations (JTFC JAO).
Captain Carter J. Collins, Company Commander of Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, Marine Rotational Force-Darwin 25.3, also spoke during the ceremony. He underscored the importance of joint training exercises in enhancing combat readiness and fostering stronger ties between the Philippine and U.S. Marines.
“The importance of joint training exercises cannot be overstated. They are vital in enhancing combat readiness and fostering stronger ties between the Philippine and U.S. Marines. The USMC remains committed to supporting regional security and cooperation efforts,” Capt. Collins stated.
The opening ceremony brought together key participants from the Philippine Marine Corps, 1st Marine Expeditionary Force of the USMC, 64th Division Reconnaissance Company of the Philippine Army, Regional Mobile Force Battalion-14 of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard, and Fleet-Marine Reservists. This diverse participation underscores the spirit of unity and collaboration in strengthening regional security.
The event will also feature Community Relations and Humanitarian Assistance activities aimed at further engaging with local communities.
MAREX 2025 is a testament to the enduring partnership between the Philippine and United States Marine Corps, reinforcing regional security and cooperation. Stay tuned for updates as the exercise progresses, building on training, learning, and strengthening ties through this historic event.
PHILIPPINE MUSLIM TODAY 