Philippines, US start PH-US Balikatan Exercise 39 with 16,000 troops

On Monday, April 22, the Philippines and United States officially commenced the 39th iteration of their annual joint military exercise, Balikatan.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. declared the start of PH-US Balikatan Exercise 39-2024 at Camp Aguinaldo, emphasizing professionalism and camaraderie.

This year's exercise involves 16,000 soldiers from both nations, highlighting unity, collective responsibility, and enduring partnership between the Philippines and the United States and other partners.

The Philippine Coast Guard will join the inaugural Multilateral Maritime Exercise (MME) from April 25 to May 4, involving joint operations in the country's exclusive economic zone.

Major General Marvin Licudine denied that the island-taking exercise in Batanes is related to tensions with China and Taiwan, stating it focuses on special operations cooperation between Philippine and US forces.

The Balikatan exercise will conclude on May 10, featuring a range of activities including maritime search and rescue and cross-deck landing practice.