Vietnam‑Philippines naval cooperation

In early July 2026 the Vietnamese and Philippine navies held their ninth bilateral friendship exchange on Song Tu Tay island in the Spratly archipelago. The event featured information sharing on search‑and‑rescue, maritime security and disaster‑warning systems, as well as cultural and sporting activities that underscored mutual trust. After the two‑week engagement, Vietnam’s Ship 571 returned to Cam Ranh Naval Base.

Later in July, a Vietnamese frigate began a new phase of the partnership by conducting joint exercises and crew exchanges with the Philippine Navy. The proceedings were highlighted by senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phan Van Giang and President To Lam, who framed the activities as part of Vietnam’s broader effort to boost defence capabilities and deepen bilateral ties amid other strategic moves such as a recent Russian naval visit.

Together, the two exchanges illustrate an expanding pattern of maritime cooperation between Vietnam and the Philippines, aimed at strengthening regional security and disaster response coordination.