Statement on Canada’s Participation in Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity

Press Release

September 14, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

The Canadian Armed Forces today issued the following statement regarding Canada’s participation in a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) this week in the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone:

“In support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region, and reflecting their collective commitment to enhanced regional and international cooperation, the armed forces of Canada, the Philippines, and the United States conducted a Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA) within the Philippines’ Exclusive Economic Zone on September 11, 2026.

“His Majesty’s Canadian Ship Regina, along with its embarked CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, participated in the MCA alongside the Philippine Air Force, the Philippine Coast Guard, the Philippine Navy, and the United States Navy. Participating forces operated together to enhance cooperation and interoperability, building on the progress achieved during previous MMCAs.

“These military activities were conducted in a manner consistent with international law, with due regard for the safety of navigation and the rights and interests of other states. This activity underscores the participating nations’ shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, and respect for maritime rights in accordance with international law, as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

“Canada has participated in MMCAs with regional allies and partners in the past, with the most recent iteration in September 2025. Participation in these multinational activities further strengthens Canada’s role as a regional security partner, promoting peace, resilience and stability in the Indo-Pacific.