Philippines, Australia conclude 2023 Kasangga exercise

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Royal Australian Regiment (RAR) on Friday concluded the annual Kasangga exercise.

Around 200 soldiers from both countries participated in the weeks-long joint military training held in Tanay, Rizal.

The training included lessons in close-quarter battle, urban warfare, sniper training, and combat medicine.

“We all know the Philippine Army (PA) still lacks in tech advancement when it comes to warfighting. Our partners in the Australian Defense Forces are coming to our help in order for us to modernize our capabilities to fight future wars,” PA Commanding General Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner said in Chino Gaston’s report on “24 Oras.”

“Our soldiers have the opportunity to learn a significant amount about the conduct of jungle warfighting, Australian Assistant Defence Attache Lieutenant Colonel Tim Lopsik said. "We had the opportunity to share lessons like General Brawner said in his speech about the different exposure we have on conflict and warfare.”

The annual military exercise is part of the two countries' years-long strategic alliance. It aims to strengthen the Philippines and Australia’s interoperability against calamities and external threats.

During World War II, Australia was one of the countries that helped in the Philippines’ liberation from the Japanese occupation.

The country also sent out reconnaissance aircraft during the Marawi Siege that provided the AFP with real-time battle intelligence in its five-month battle with the Maute Group.

As part of the AUKUS (Australia-UK-US) Defense Agreement, Australia also patrols the South China Sea and ensures freedom of navigation in the highly-disputed waters.

Before the end of the year, Australian forces are expected to hold military drills with the Philippine Army Scout Rangers in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija. — Sundy Locus/DVM, GMA Integrated News