MANILA: The United States is deploying around 9,000 troops to the Philippines for this year's joint military exercises, as the allies strengthen ties amid tensions with China over its activities in the South China Sea and in Taiwan.
The annual drills, which the Philippine military on Tuesday described as a rehearsal for national defence, will include 5,000 Filipino troops, 200 from the Australia Defence Force, and observers from the Japan Self-Defence Force. For the first time, observers from countries like Poland and the Czech Republic will also participate.
While this year's troop count is lower than 2023's 17,600, it will be more purposeful, Brigadier General Michael Logico, spokesperson for the event, told a press conference. The annual 'Balikatan,' or 'shoulder-to-shoulder' drills reflect deepening defence ties between the two allies, as tensions simmer in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, where China recently held large-scale military exercises.
The drills will run from April 21 to May 9. — Reuters
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