The armed forces of the United States and the Philippines conducted a joint military exercise on Monday, aimed at repelling a simulated invasion in the northern waters of the Philippines, facing Taiwan.
The exercise, which involved firing missiles and artillery, was intended to demonstrate military prowess and enhance bilateral ties amidst escalating regional tensions.
Approximately 200 soldiers participated in defending the shores of the coastal city of Laoag in Ilocos province.
They launched Javelin missiles and fired howitzers and machine guns to repel an unidentified enemy attempting to storm the beach.
The military drills come in the wake of recent tensions between the Philippines and China, with the Philippines accusing China of using water cannons against its vessels near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, resulting in damage to naval vessels and injuries to personnel.
Addressing the situation, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr stated that his country would not retaliate in a similar manner, aiming to avoid further escalation of tensions.
The exercises have drawn criticism from China, which has expressed concerns about destabilisation when external parties engage in military displays in the region.
However, U.S. Marines Lieutenant General Michael Cederholm clarified that the exercises were primarily focused on enhancing interoperability between the two armed forces and were not aimed at any specific adversary.
The joint exercises, known as Balikatan, will culminate with a maritime strike on Wednesday, during which combined Philippine and U.S. forces will sink a decommissioned Philippine navy ship.
The drills, which have included various simulations, such as retaking occupied islands, are set to conclude on Friday.
Security cooperation between Manila and Washington has intensified under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., with increased access granted to American forces to Philippine bases under an enhanced defence cooperation agreement.
Joint patrols in the South China Sea have also been initiated, reaffirming the commitment of the United States to defend the Philippines against any armed aggression under their mutual defence treaty.
