US And Philippine Armed Forces Launch Major Joint Exercises Amid China Tensions

The armed forces of the United States and the Philippines commenced extensive joint military exercises on Tuesday, involving key allies across multiple locations in the Philippines, including regions near Taiwan and the South China Sea. These drills, scheduled to run until October 25, follow recent war games conducted by China around Taiwan, which have faced backlash from both the Taipei and US governments.

The military exercises, known as KAMANDAG an acronym in Filipino meaning “Cooperation of the Warriors of the Sea” will see participation from over 2,000 U.S. troops alongside Filipino soldiers and personnel. Activities will include amphibious landings, live-fire drills, and humanitarian assistance operations, as confirmed by the Philippine Marine Corps.

Allied nations, including Australia, Britain, Japan, and South Korea, are also participating in the exercises, which coincide with ongoing naval drills off the northern coast of Luzon involving the Philippines, the US, and four other nations.

Major General Arturo Rojas, Commandant of the Philippine Marine Corps, emphasized that KAMANDAG represents more than just defense, stating, “It is about building trust, fostering cooperation, and reinforcing the partnerships that allow us to maintain peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.” He highlighted the strong bonds between the Philippines and its allies, affirming their collective commitment to ensuring regional security. The Philippines and the U.S. have a long-standing partnership, strengthened by a Mutual Defense Treaty in place for over seven decades.v