To strengthen maritime capabilities and security across the region, the Naval Small Craft Instruction and Technical Training School (NAVSCIATTS) and the Philippines Army’s Special Forces Regiment - Airborne (SFR-A) have agreed to establish a maritime training center in the Philippines, Province of Bohol. The entities will collaborate in areas including maritime security, curriculum management, and instructor and training center development.

“The improvement of the riverine capability of our unit is critical, not just in the maintenance of peace and security, but also in assisting other units and other government agencies in the performance of their function,” said Brig. Gen. Ferdinand Napuli to DVIDS. Napuli previously served as the commander of the Philippines’ 19th Special Forces Company and 3rd Special Forces Battalion. Napuli traveled to the United States to deliver NAVSCIATTS’ Semester 23-5 graduation keynote address.

The Philippines faces unique challenges in safeguarding its waters and territories, reports DVIDS, as its navy is unable to cover the entirety of its internal waters. Riverine assets will benefit the SFR-A substantially.