Philippine and US forces conduct joint drills in Ilocos Norte

On Monday, May 6, 2024, Exercise Balikatan took place at La Paz Sand Dunes near Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, featuring live fire drills simulating a defensive posture against a foreign invader from the South China Sea.

Philippine and US forces participated in counter-landing exercises, with Filipino troops using Autonomous Truck Mounted Howitzer Systems (ATMOS) and U.S. Marines deploying Javelin missiles and heavy machine guns to thwart simulated enemy attacks along Ilocos Norte's coastal waters.

Floating drums served as targets for artillery fire, while simulated amphibious vehicles were detected by Javelin missile teams, demonstrating the effectiveness of joint operations between Philippine Marine Corps and USMC Littoral Combat Team units.

Lieutenant General Michael Cederholm praised the exercises, stating they enhance interoperability and readiness, while Major Gen. Marvin Licudine emphasized improved capabilities for both armed forces in defending Philippine sovereignty.

The drills aim to strengthen regional ties without targeting any third party or threatening stability, as part of the Philippines' Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept.

Gabriela staged a protest against the Balikatan exercises in Manila but was prevented from holding a rally near the US Embassy by local police.