The United States and the Philippines conducted a joint maritime security training session from March 24 to 28 in Manila. The event aimed to strengthen the Philippines' capacity to combat the trafficking of hazardous chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear materials.
The training was organized by the U.S. Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) under its International Counterproliferation Program. It brought together experts from both countries and involved 35 Philippine government representatives. Participants were trained in identifying, targeting, and interdicting vessels carrying hazardous materials used in weapons of mass destruction.
The workshop featured "train-the-trainer" sessions designed to help sustain the agencies' efforts in identifying gaps in maritime security operations and doctrines. DTRA instructors collaborated with facilitators from the Philippine Office for Transportation Security.
Representatives from various Philippine agencies participated, including the Department of Trade and Industry’s Strategic Trade Management Office, Department of Transportation’s Office for Transportation Security, Bureau of Customs, Philippine Ports Authority, Maritime Industry Authority, Presidential Office for Maritime Concerns, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine Navy, and Philippine National Police Maritime Group.
Director Jose S. Embang, Jr. of the Philippines' Anti-Terrorism Council Program Management Center expressed gratitude for DTRA's assistance. He highlighted the importance of these efforts in enhancing both national and global security.
"We value our longstanding partnership with ATC-PMC and their unwavering efforts to strengthen Philippine CBRN policy and legislation," said Nicholas DeDominici, Chief of DTRA at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. He emphasized the commitment to continued cooperation supporting initiatives for secure maritime activities.
The workshop represents part of DTRA’s broader strategy to bolster interagency coordination among Philippine government bodies, elevate their capabilities to counter weapons of mass destruction proliferation, and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific through U.S.-Philippine collaboration.