The Philippines, the United States, Japan, and Australia once again showed solidarity in their exercises in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). The exercise, called the 6th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MMCA), aims to strengthen the cooperation and interoperability of the countries' military forces. The activities included drills and exercises using ships and planes from the four countries.
Just weeks after joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea, these activities are proof of the countries' collective commitment to strengthening a free and open Indo-Pacific region. AFP chief said Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. that the exercises are in accordance with international law and respect the rights of other countries.
While there were a few Chinese vessels that minonitored the area, it did not cause a malfunction. The exercises continued well. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. also gave a statement. about the security of the defense agreements between the Philippines and the US, with no expected changes.
Philippine Focus on Maritime Security
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also deployed one of its flagship ships in the southern part of the country to increase security against foreign ships, following reports of Chinese warships passing through the Basilan Strait.
Statement by Arlene Brosas
Assistant Minority Leader Arlene Brosas condemned the joint military exercises, saying it could cause tension and danger to the people of the Philippines. According to him, the US is using the Philippines for its geopolitical interests and is causing a possible conflict. He also mentioned the need for an independent foreign policy that promotes the country's sovereignty.
