PH, US, Australian troops hold maritime access exercise in Palawan amid Balikatan

Troops from the Philippines, United States and Australia conducted a dynamic maritime key terrain security operations (MKTSO) activity near Puerto Princesa City, Palawan as part of the Balikatan Exercise 2025.

In a statement, the Balikatan 2025 Combined Joint Information Bureau said the drill took place on May 5.

“The exercise featured air and ground insertions, including MV-22 Osprey deployments and coordinated jungle maneuvers, simulating real-world challenges in securing strategic coastal terrain,” organizers said.

“MKTSO showcased the enduring commitment of the Philippines, the United States, and Australia to regional security, cooperation, and collective defense across the Indo-Pacific,” it added.

Meanwhile, Filipino and US troops also held a fun shoot at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Wednesday.

“The event brought together participants from both nations in a friendly marksmanship competition designed not just to sharpen skills, but also to strengthen interpersonal bonds outside of formal training,” the militaries said.

“The shoot, held in a relaxed but spirited environment, was part of the continuing effort to promote solidarity and interoperability between the two allied forces,” it added.

Balikatan, an annual exercise between Manila and Washington, started on April 21 with around 17,000 troops taking part in various activities. 

For this year’s Balikatan, Filipino and US troops are engaging in a full battle exercise meant to replicate major hostilities. —Joviland Rita/RF, GMA Integrated News