Philippine and Australian soldiers showcased their firepower in Nueva Ecija on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, during Exercise Amphibious and Land Operations (ALON) 2025, a joint training aimed at boosting military defense.

The drills were held in two locations: the mountains of Barangay Canantong in Laur and the firing range inside Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City.

“The scenario is there’s an ongoing counter-attack on the land forces. And we have here the fire support from both the Australian and Army howitzers,” Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Commanding General of the Philippine Army, said.

Lt. Col. Andrew Raven, Commander of Battlegroup Ram of the Australian Army, explained the operations behind the heavy weapons.

“Around 13 people is ideal for the M777. The Atmos I think is a bit of a smaller crew and that’s because it’s a self-propelled weapon system whereas the M777 is towed,” he said.

Troops from both countries demonstrated their skills in handling explosives and advanced weapon systems.

“We also have personnel in the ground, around a hundred sixty personnel who participated in different aspects, phases of the Exercise ALON,” Lt. Gen. Arthur Cordura, Commanding General of the Philippine Air Force, said.

Military officials said joint exercises like ALON are vital in strengthening cooperation between the Philippines and Australia, ensuring both forces are ready to respond to any security threat.