The Philippine and United States navies carried out a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea on Wednesday, as announced by the Philippine armed forces. The two nations initiated joint maritime activities in November with the aim of improving their military coordination amid rising tensions with China in the South China Sea. The recent exercise, which took place within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, involved two vessels and focused on boosting communication and operational coordination between the two navies, according to a statement from Manila's military.
"These joint exercises with our ally are essential for enhancing our naval capabilities and ensuring effective collaboration to protect our maritime interests," said Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner, as quoted in the statement. On Tuesday, US State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with their Philippine counterparts, during which Washington committed $500 million to strengthen Manila's military and coast guard. Security collaborations between the treaty partners have intensified under Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has shifted closer to Washington and away from his predecessor's policy of deepening ties with China.
Additional funding could be forthcoming next year, according to a diplomatic source who spoke to Reuters on Wednesday. "There is a possibility that next year there might be additional budget for the air force," the source said, requesting anonymity due to lack of authority to speak publicly on the matter. The Philippines defense department has shown interest in acquiring US F-16 jets, the source added.
