AFP: VFA, 'Balikatan' exercises continue despite US aid suspension

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) stated on Tuesday that existing agreements like the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), which facilitates joint 'Balikatan' exercises with the United States, will remain unaffected by President Donald Trump's temporary suspension of foreign aid.

Col. Francel Margareth Padilla, an AFP spokesperson, assured during a press briefing in Quezon City that despite Trump's directive to halt foreign development assistance for 09 days, long-standing agreements such as the VFA and 'Balikatan' exercises will continue.

Padilla noted that ongoing military engagements with the US are business as usual, emphasizing that there is no dialing down at this point.

This year's 'Balikatan' exercise is expected to be one of the largest in history, with additional countries expressing interest in participating actively.

The Philippines and the US regularly hold joint military exercises, reinforcing their defense cooperation and strategic partnership. The previous US administration had pledged $500 million in new funding for the Philippines' military and coast guard, aimed at bolstering its capacity to deter unlawful aggression.

While Padilla did not disclose specific nations or troop numbers due to ongoing planning stages, she mentioned that these countries are still finalizing their commitments regarding assets and participation levels.