For the first time, the Philippine and U.S. coast guards participated in joint military exercises in the South China Sea, according to the Philippine military. Held near Palawan and Occidental Mindoro, the “maritime cooperative activity” is part of broader bilateral drills. While both coast guards have collaborated in the past, this marks their debut in a combined military exercise, reflecting a stronger nationwide approach to maritime security. The Philippines deployed BRP Melchora Aquino and BRP Malapascua, while the U.S. contributed the cutter Stratton. These drills occurred amid heightened regional tensions over disputed maritime claims by China.
