Philippines and US Ramp Up Joint Maritime Exercises Amidst South China Sea Tensions

The Philippines and the United States navies conducted a joint maritime exercise within the South China Sea to improve collaboration and address rising tensions with China. The exercise, within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, aimed to enhance communication and effectiveness between the two navies. The U.S. has also pledged $500 million to boost Manila's military capabilities.

The Philippines and United States navies conducted a joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea on Wednesday, according to the Philippine armed forces.

The collaboration, which began in November, aims to improve how their militaries operate together amid rising tensions with China. The recent exercise, held inside the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, featured two vessels and aimed to boost communication and operational coordination between the navies, as stated by Manila's military.

'These joint exercises with our ally are crucial in enhancing our naval capabilities and ensuring that we can effectively collaborate to safeguard our maritime interests,' Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner said. On Tuesday, U.S. State Secretary Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin pledged $500 million to strengthen Manila's military and coast guard. Future funding could also be in the pipeline, with possible investments in the air force to purchase U.S. F-16 jets.

(With inputs from agencies.)