The United States and the Philippines have approved more than 500 joint military activities for 2026, a move aimed at boosting defense ties and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. The decision was finalized during the annual Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board meeting at Camp Smith, Hawaii.
The gathering was led by Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner and US Indo-Pacific Command Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo. Both leaders signed the annual 8-Star memorandum, laying out the framework for collaboration, including Balikatan 2026, the flagship bilateral exercise between the two allies.
The planned activities include extensive field drills, training sessions, and expert exchanges to improve interoperability and readiness between the two militaries. US officials also reiterated Washington’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific while deterring threats and supporting crisis responses.
This development comes amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese incursions and maritime incidents have increased. Alongside US support, Japan has pledged naval assets to Manila, while Australia is expanding its joint training programs, signaling a broader regional effort to reinforce Philippine defense capabilities.
