Metro Manila, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the Philippine military’s training with major countries is “extremely important,” as the region’s security conditions remain volatile.
Marcos was in Zambales on Friday morning to witness the amphibious assault exercise between the Philippines, Australia, and the US, where about 2,000 personnel participated.
He said the joint training exercises are part of his administration’s efforts to strengthen the country’s military capability and create closer cooperation with neighbors around the region.
“I think it’s an important aspect of how we prepare for any eventuality considering that there have been so many events that attest to the volatility of the region,” he said.
“This strategic cooperation between countries in the region is extremely important,” Marcos added.
The US and Australia have been supporting the Philippines as it faces continued harassment from military powerhouse China in the West Philippine Sea, where Manila and Beijing have conflicting claims.
Envoys from Australia and the US, among others, also condemned China’s firing of water cannons at Filipino vessels earlier this month.
In his upcoming meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in September, Marcos said he would discuss the continuation of the drills.
“I’m sure we will come up with some new strategies, new ideas, and agreements in terms of partnerships. Security and defense will be one part of that,” the president said.
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