PHL-US 2019 Balikatan exercises to focus on territorial defense, maritime domain awareness

For this year’s Balikatan exercises, the Philippines and United States (US) troops will focus on activities that will improve their territorial defense and maritime domain awareness, according to a report of Chino Gaston on GMA News’ Balitanghali.

US exercise co-director Brigadier General Christoper Phillips said the Balikatan has no specific target country when asked if the exercises are in preparation for the defense against China whose hundreds of vessels were spotted exploring the West Philippine Sea.

Amphibious assault ship USS Wasp with advanced aircraft F-35 Lightning II has arrived in the country for the troops to use in the joint exercises.

The Balikatan will also assess the interoperability of the two countries in responding to calamities and security, the report said.

Aside from the special forces, contingents from Australian Defense Forces, observers from seven allied countries, including Japan, New Zealand, United Kingdom and Canada, will join the Balikatan exercises.

At least 8,000 troops, composed of 4,000 Filipino troops, 3,500 US troops and 50 Australian troops, will be participating in the 35th Balikatan this year. —Joviland Rita/LDF, GMA News