Philippines launches major military drills with 17,000 troops amid regional tensions
More than 17,000 troops from the Philippines and the United States have begun large-scale annual military exercises, joined for the first time by a significant contingent from Japan, in a move that has drawn sharp criticism from China.
The drills, known as “Balikatan” (meaning “shoulder to shoulder”), involve land, air, and naval forces and are taking place in northern Philippines, near strategic waters facing Taiwan and the disputed South China Sea. Several allied countries, including Australia, France, New Zealand, and Canada, are also providing support.
Military officials say the exercises aim to strengthen interoperability and readiness among allied forces in the Indo-Pacific region. Live-fire drills are scheduled, including missile training operations involving Japanese forces targeting a naval vessel.
The United States described the exercises as one of its largest deployments in recent years in the region, emphasizing commitment to a “free and open Indo-Pacific.” Officials, however, declined to disclose the exact number of U.S. personnel involved.
Tensions surrounding Taiwan continue to shape regional security dynamics. Beijing has repeatedly condemned similar drills, accusing participating countries of escalating instability and “playing with fire.”
The exercises come at a time of heightened geopolitical sensitivity, with concerns over potential conflict scenarios involving Taiwan and ongoing disputes in the South China Sea. Philippine authorities have stated that the country must be prepared for any spillover effects of regional conflict, given its geographic proximity and economic ties.
China’s foreign ministry reiterated its criticism, warning that deepening military alliances in the region could ultimately backfire and destabilize long-term peace efforts.
