MANILA, Philippines — The United States and the Philippines on Monday launched one of their largest joint military exercises, reinforcing their alliance in a show of deterrence amid rising tensions in the region and ongoing global security challenges.
The annual Balikatan exercises, which means “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Filipino, will involve more than 17,000 troops from both countries and run for nearly three weeks. The drills will feature simulated combat scenarios and live-fire exercises in strategic locations, including areas facing the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
This year’s exercises have expanded to include Japan and Canada as full-time participants, following their visiting forces agreements with Manila, according to Philippine military officials. Japan is deploying approximately 1,400 personnel, marking its largest participation since previously joining as an observer.
Nearly 10,000 U.S. troops are taking part, underscoring Washington’s continued military commitment to the Indo-Pacific despite its engagement in other global conflicts.
“Regardless of the challenges elsewhere in the world, the United States focus on the Indo-Pacific and our ironclad commitment to the Philippines remains unwavering,” Marine Lt. Gen. Christian Wortman said during the opening ceremony.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner said the exercises aim to strengthen deterrence and improve readiness against potential threats, while also enhancing the allies’ ability to respond to natural disasters. Although he did not name any country, Brawner has previously criticized China’s increasingly assertive actions in contested waters.
China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea, has objected to the drills, warning that the presence of foreign forces could heighten tensions in the region. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the Asia-Pacific region needs stability and cautioned against actions that could lead to confrontation.
The Philippines, along with Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, maintains competing claims in the South China Sea, a vital global trade route. Encounters between Chinese and Filipino vessels have intensified in recent years.
The United States has repeatedly reaffirmed its defense commitments to the Philippines under their mutual defense treaty, stating it would respond in the event of an armed attack on Philippine forces in disputed areas.
“We remain guided by a shared commitment to uphold international law, to respect sovereignty and to contribute to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Brawner said.
As part of the drills, Japanese forces are expected to conduct missile exercises from Ilocos Norte targeting a simulated enemy vessel offshore, while U.S. forces will deploy explosive-laden marine drones in coordinated operations.
The expanded scope of this year’s Balikatan highlights growing security cooperation among U.S. allies in the region, as concerns persist over maritime disputes and freedom of navigation in key international waters.
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