US, PH troops conduct joint anti-terror drills in Maguindanao

Approximately 500 American and Filipino troops engaged in joint Marine and anti-terrorism exercises in Maguindanao del Norte, reinforcing the defense partnership between the US and the Philippines.

The Marine Exercise (MAREX) 2025 involved personnel from the Philippine Marine Corps, Philippine Army, Coast Guard, reservists, and US Marines.

The exercises focused on enhancing capabilities in maritime rapid response, counter-landing, and coastal defense.

MAREX 2025, which started on March 30 and concludes on April 11, is designed to improve interoperability and demonstrate the combined forces' ability to ensure regional maritime security.

The training was conducted in the Moro Gulf, a strategically important maritime area for the Philippines, vital for access to the Celebes Sea and defense against regional threats.

These joint drills highlight the increasing significance of military cooperation between the Philippines and the US amidst regional territorial disputes and geopolitical challenges.