Philippine Coast Guard Capt. Jaybom J. Calica, commanding officer of the BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) talks to crewmembers from the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Stratton (WMSL 752), the Philippine Coast Guard Vessel BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) and the Japan Coast Guard Vessel Akitsushima (PLH 32) during a hotwash upon the conclusion of combined operations between the Japan, Philippine and U.S. Coast Guards in the South China Sea, June 7, 2023. Stratton’s crew participated in the first trilateral engagements between the sea services while deployed to the Western Pacific to operate with regional allies and partner nations, reinforcing a rules-based order and maritime governance to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer Matt Masaschi)