The two states hold their annual military exercise.
(Photo: AP)
manila Amid rising tensions with China, the Philippines and the US have begun their largest-ever joint military exercises. The background is China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea and military maneuvers off Taiwan.
A total of 17,600 soldiers are taking part in the annual Balikatan (shoulder to shoulder) exercises this time, including 12,200 from the United States. The maneuvers, which will also include sea combat exercises with live ammunition, will last until April 28.
The focus should be on sea and coastal defense. The training is intended to prepare the armed forces of both countries “to respond promptly and effectively to any situation, crisis or emergency under any circumstances,” said Philippine military chief Andres Centino at the beginning of the exercises. At the same time, they should contribute to peace in the Indo-Pacific.
In February, the Philippines had already promised the United States access to four more military bases in the island nation. US forces previously used five Philippine military bases.
Balikatan 2023 will be held in five provinces including Zambales and Palawan, which lie on the South China Sea. The Philippines and other countries are at odds with Beijing over sovereignty over resource-rich marine areas. China has created artificial islands to support claims and is unwilling to recognize an international arbitration award in favor of the Philippines.
US and Philippines practice near Taiwan
Another practice site is near Taiwan. Beijing regards the independently governed Taiwan as part of the People’s Republic and threatens to conquer it. In response to Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to the United States and her talks with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, China recently held large-scale maneuvers around Taiwan.
China warned that the Balikatan exercises should not meddle in disputes over contested waters. China’s territorial sovereignty, maritime rights and security interests should not be harmed either, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin.
More: Taiwan reports record number of Chinese planes and ships off the island