IN THE NEWS | PMC SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDE APEX "ACERO" 06-2026

The Philippine Marine Corps officially concluded the Archipelagic Coastal Defense Preparedness Exercise (APEX) "Acero" 06-2026 during the Closing Ceremony held on July 13, 2026 at the Headquarters, 4th Marine Brigade, Camp Bojeador, Burgos, Ilocos Norte. The event was presided over by Major General Vicente MAP Blanco III PN(M), Commandant Philippine Marine Corps, who served as the Guest of Honor and Speaker.

The ten-day drill exercise of Marine Operating Forces across the archipelago executed synchronized and realistic operational scenarios aimed at validating combat readiness, refining defense concepts, and enhancing interoperability among units tasked to protect the nation's territories, coastlines, and maritime domain.

In his address, the Commandant, PMC said, "This exercise marks a milestone, APEX ''Acero''will now be institutionalized and conducted twice a year. This proves our growing capability to independently design and conduct complex operations; we do not need others to validate our readiness, we test our own steel. We will not let constraints dictate our preparedness, and we remain steadfast in our goal to be relevant, capable, and ready as the nation’s Amphibious Force-in-Readiness through 2028 and beyond."

Named for the first Philippine Marine Medal of Valor awardee, Private First Class Nestor F Acero, the Exercise uphold his legacy as the PMC builds toward being the Nation's ready amphibious Force to defend the Republic.