Filipino sailor joins world’s largest maritime warfare exercise

Great journeys often begin in the most humble places. For one Filipino from the quiet town of Hinunangan in Southern Leyte, a dream fueled by perseverance, humility and a desire to make a difference has carried him onto one of the world’s biggest international stages.

That journey has led Petty Officer 2nd Class Elisar Bongcales aboard the USS Essex, where he is participating in Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026, the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise, alongside thousands of military personnel from 31 nations.

A graduate of Holy Rosary Academy in 2015, Bongcales joined the U.S. Navy eight years ago with aspirations that reached beyond simply traveling the world.

“I joined the Navy to travel around the world and to go to school,” Bongcales said. “I also wanted to make a difference.”

That dream has since evolved into a career built on service, leadership and lifelong learning.

Now serving as an aviation boatswain’s mate, Bongcales credits the values he learned while growing up in the Philippines for shaping both his character and his leadership.

“Growing up, I learned to be humble and to always remember where I come from,” Bongcales said. “I also learned to always take care of the person next to you because that’s all you’re going to have at the end of the day.”

Those lessons continue to guide him aboard one of the U.S. Navy’s amphibious assault ships, where teamwork, trust and mutual respect are essential to every mission.

“In the Navy, taking care of your shipmates and being humble are important because junior sailors look up to you as a leader,” he said. “It’s also easier to work with humble people.”

This year marks Bongcales’ first participation in RIMPAC, an experience he describes as both exciting and meaningful.

“This is my first time attending RIMPAC,” he said. “I am excited to meet sailors from other countries.”

Held every two years since 1971, RIMPAC 2026 brings together 31 nations, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 140 aircraft and over 25,000 military personnel. The multinational exercise provides realistic training that strengthens cooperation among allied and partner nations through missions ranging from humanitarian assistance and disaster response to maritime security and complex naval operations.

Carrying the theme “Partners: Integrated and Prepared,” this year’s exercise reinforces the importance of interoperability, trust and readiness in promoting a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific. It also marks the 30th edition of RIMPAC, which has served as a cornerstone of multinational maritime cooperation since its inception in 1971.

For Bongcales, however, the greatest reward lies not only in professional growth but also in becoming someone his family can be proud of while continuing to serve with purpose.

“Serving in the Navy means a lot to me,” he said. “It gives me a chance to better myself and to be able to protect my loved ones back home and the American people.”

He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people who have supported him throughout his journey.

“I want to thank my wife, Jasmine, for supporting me every day,” Bongcales said. “I also want to thank my parents, Sarah and Brian, and my entire family for pushing me to be better every single day.”

Hosted by the U.S. Pacific Fleet, RIMPAC 2026 is led by Commander, U.S. 3rd Fleet Rear Adm. Richard Meyer as Combined Task Force commander, with Chile serving as deputy commander, Japan as vice commander, the Republic of Korea leading the maritime component and Canada commanding the air component.

Beyond military training, the exercise highlights the enduring value of international cooperation, strengthening partnerships that contribute to maritime safety, regional stability and collective security across the Indo-Pacific.

From a small town in Southern Leyte to one of the world’s premier multinational maritime exercises, Bongcales’ story is a testament to how Filipino resilience, humility and dedication continue to earn respect on the global stage. His journey serves as an inspiring reminder that with purpose, perseverance and strong values, even the biggest dreams can become reality.