India's Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish Reach Subic Bay, Philippines for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity

Key facts

• Indian Naval Ships Sahyadri and Kulish arrived at Subic Bay in the Philippines on September 21, 2026 to participate in the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)-Plus Joint Cooperation Activity (JCA) as part of the Indian Navy's operational deployment.
• The ADMM-Plus JCA brings together maritime forces from ASEAN member states and eight Plus countries for professional and operational engagements aimed at enhancing interoperability and maritime cooperation.
• India's participation aligns with the Act East Policy and the vision of MAHASAGAR, reflecting its commitment to multilateral maritime cooperation.
• The deployment builds on the India-Philippines Strategic Partnership established in August 2025 during the Philippine President's state visit, when Prime Minister Modi elevated the relationship to a strategic partnership.
• Philippines Ambassador to India Josel F Ignacio said on September 15, 2026, at the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), that India is seen as a preferred security partner and first responder, noting India's rescue of Filipino seafarers in the Indian Ocean.