"strengthening bilateral relations between Indonesia and the Philippines through a series of activities that demonstrated their close maritime security cooperation".
IDNEWS.CO, MANADO,- The ceremony, officially concluded by Lantamal VIII Commander First Admiral TNI May Franky Pasuna Sihombing, CHRMP., alongside Captain Junjie B. Tabuada from the Philippine Navy, marked the culmination of a coordinated patrol designed to ensure stability in the maritime border area shared by the two nations.
Held at Grha Yos Sudarso, Lantamal VIII Base, on Monday (18/11), the closing ceremony was attended by senior military officials from both Indonesia and the Philippines, exemplifying the diplomatic and defense partnership that has been long established.
In his address delivered by the Deputy Commander of Lantamal VIII, Commander of Fleet Command II (Pangkoarmada II) Rear Admiral TNI Ariantyo Condrowibowo expressed deep appreciation to all parties contributing to the implementation of Corpat Philindo XXXVIII-2024.
He emphasized that this coordinated patrol serves as a tangible testament to the shared commitment to maintaining security, mitigating threats, and enhancing stability in the maritime border region, which remains a strategically important area in Southeast Asia.
Rear Admiral TNI Ariantyo Condrowibowo underlined that the continuity of this patrol not only holds strategic value in terms of security but also reflects the strong synergy and cooperation between Indonesia and the Philippines.
This collaboration is expected to continue yielding positive impacts in various sectors. He highlighted the importance of collective spirit in addressing the evolving regional challenges, while also stressing the underlying values of friendship and mutual trust that have sustained this cooperation.
The closing ceremony of Corpat Philindo XXXVIII-2024 was not merely a routine ceremonial event but was enlivened with activities symbolizing unity and camaraderie between the two nations.
The proceedings commenced with the national anthems of Indonesia and the Philippines, creating a solemn atmosphere that paid high respect to the national identities of both countries.
A gift exchange session between representatives of each delegation served as a gesture of appreciation and recognition for the ongoing partnership, further strengthening mutual respect and acknowledgment.
Additionally, a group photo session involving all delegates was held as a symbol of cherished memories, aimed at fostering closer ties among participants.
The closing event was further enlivened with a "Sailor Night" celebration featuring various cultural activities.
Performances of traditional North Sulawesi dances, vibrant and spirited, along with a line dance session involving all participants, showcased unity, harmony, and the deep bonds of friendship among military personnel from both nations.
Attending the event were the Philippine delegation, key officials of Lantamal VIII, Staff Officers from TNI Headquarters, Pabantik Sops Koarmada II, and heads of Lantamal VIII units.
Personnel from KRI Butana-878, KRI Pari-849, and BRP Artemio Ricarte PS-37, who actively participated in the joint patrol, also graced the occasion, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
Corpat Philindo, regularly conducted by Indonesia and the Philippines, represents a collective effort to safeguard maritime border security and ensure regional stability.
The initiative underscores the two nations' commitment to enhancing military cooperation, fostering mutual understanding, and upholding the rule of law in the border areas that form vital trade and security routes within Southeast Asia.
This highlights the pivotal roles of Indonesia and the Philippines in safeguarding maritime security, contributing significantly to regional stability, and reinforcing a spirit of steadfast collaboration between both nations.
(Yudi barik)