MANILA, May 8 -- The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) deployed two capital ships and their crew to participate in the final leg of the Philippines-United States Balikatan exercise on Wednesday.

PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armando Balilo said BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) and BRP Malapascua (MRRV-4403) were deployed along with 150 personnel from the Coast Guard Special Operations Force, Coast Guard Medical Service, and Coast Guard Fleet.

"The PCG will participate in the maritime strike team drill, together with US and Philippine contingents," Balilo said.

The exercise is being held in the vicinity waters of Laoag.

Both ships were deployed to monitor and secure Balikatan exercise areas before proceeding to Ilocos Norte for the final leg...