The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has announced that they are in the process of planning joint patrols with Australia in the South China Sea.
The purpose of these patrols is to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region while promoting a rules-based order.
In a joint statement released during a recent amphibious assault drill between Filipino and Australian troops, both countries expressed their commitment to a peaceful and stable region where all countries can exercise their sovereignty by international law.
Defense cooperation plays a significant role in the partnership between the Philippines and Australia, exemplified by the Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE) program.
The two nations have reaffirmed their commitment to planning bilateral joint patrols in the South China Sea, as well as other areas of mutual interest.
As part of the IPE program, a combined amphibious assault exercise called “Exercise Alon” took place at the Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui, involving personnel from the AFP, Australian Defense Force (ADF), and support from the United States Marine Corps (USMC).
This exercise aims to enhance defense cooperation by fostering closer collaboration, increasing interoperability, and strengthening people-to-people links between the AFP and ADF.
Source: Inside Politico | #InsidePolitico | August 29, 2023