Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Wraps Up Vibrant Mission in Legazpi, Philippines

Pacific Partnership 2024-2 has seen active collaboration among Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Republic of Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Initiatives included first aid workshops for 98 attendees, health and music education for 2,776 students, and training for search and rescue professionals with K-9 units.

The multinational team also held a conference with faith leaders and facilitated 281 free spay and neuter procedures for cats and dogs, along with rabies vaccinations. Public concerts featuring the Philippine Navy Seabees Band entertained approximately 7,500 people, and a significant refurbishment of a building at Legazpi Port Elementary School was completed.

In a collaborative effort with the Legazpi City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, the team tested the city’s tsunami response plan for the first time. U.S. Navy Capt. Daniel Keeler, the mission commander, emphasized the importance of such multinational engagements for disaster preparedness and regional stability. “Multilateral efforts with local government and military representatives are crucial for Indo-Pacific disaster response preparedness, maritime security, and stability,” Keeler stated.

Pacific Partnership, the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission in the Indo-Pacific, aims to enhance disaster response capabilities while fostering strong relationships. High-level attendance at the closing ceremony included Legazpi City Mayor Carmen Geraldine B. Rosal and Philippine Army Lt. Gen. Facundo Palafox. Mayor Rosal acknowledged the impact of the mission, saying, “Our collaboration proves we can achieve great things for the benefit of the people.”

Since its inception in 2006, following the devastating 2004 “Boxing Day” tsunami, Pacific Partnership has sought to proactively prepare for natural disasters while tightening security ties among nations. The mission showcases the commitment to sustained and transparent collaboration, enhancing knowledge and capability across all participating countries.

Lt. Gen. Palafox noted this year’s accomplishments, “Building upon last year’s success, we have deepened our commitment to regional resilience. This year’s progress reflects our dedication to essential partnerships for security and humanitarian efforts in the Indo-Pacific.”

Recent U.S. relief efforts underline the ongoing commitment to the region, with responses to the 2023 volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea and previous natural disasters in Tonga, Northern Mariana Islands, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Japan. Pacific Partnership 2024-2 is scheduled to make stops in Vietnam and the Federated States of Micronesia.

For more information about Pacific Partnership visit, www.clwp.navy.mil/Pacific-Partnership.