Philippine, US navies hold joint exercise in West Philippine Sea

The Philippines and United States navies conducted a joint maritime exercise in the West Philippine Sea on Wednesday, the Philippine armed forces said.

The two allies began joint maritime activities in November to enhance how their militaries could operate in tandem at a time of growing tensions with China in the South China Sea.

The latest exercise, held inside the part of the South China Sea within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, included two vessels and was designed to enhance communication and operational coordination between the two navies, the Armed Forces of the Philippines said in a statement.

"These joint exercises with our ally are crucial in enhancing our naval capabilities and ensuring that we can effectively collaborate to safeguard our maritime interests," AFP chief Romeo Brawner was quoted as saying in the statement.

According to the AFP, the two navies held communications check exercise, division tactics, officer of the watch maneuver exercise, photographic exercise, and cross deck exercise.

The joint maritime exercise aims to strengthen the interoperability and cooperative capabilities of the Philippine and the US navies. 

“By conducting these exercises, both navies aim to improve their readiness and ability to operate together in ensuring maritime security and stability in the region,” the AFP said.

“The successful execution of these maritime exercises underscores the strong defense ties between the Philippines and the United States and their shared commitment to upholding freedom of navigation and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region,” it added.

On Tuesday, US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held talks with their Philippine counterparts in which Washington pledged funding of $500 million to beef up Manila's military and coast guard.

Security engagements between the treaty partners have increased under Philippines President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., who has pivoted closer to Washington and away from his predecessor's foreign policy stance of deepening relations with China.

More funds could come next year, a diplomatic source told Reuters on Wednesday.

"There is a possibility that next year there might be additional budget for the air force," said the source, who asked not to be named for lack of authority to speak publicly on the matter.

The Philippines defense department has expressed interest to purchase US F-16 jets, the source added. — Reuters with Joviland Rita/GMA Integrated News