Luke Allen – Military Political Analyst – Makati, Manila – lukeallenmanila@journlist.com
On August 2nd, the armed forces of the Philippines announced that they had carried out their first-ever joint military exercises with Japan in the South China Sea. The drills took place within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, marking a significant step in the growing defense cooperation between the two nations. The joint exercises are seen as a strategic move to reinforce regional security and stability in the face of escalating tensions in the contested waters of the South China Sea.
The exercises, which were conducted in the vicinity of the strategic waterway, involved two vessels from each side. The participating forces engaged in a series of training activities aimed at enhancing their interoperability and coordination. According to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the exercises included communication drills, coordinated maneuvering, and a photographic exercise. These activities mirror similar exercises the Philippines regularly conducts with the United States as part of their longstanding defense alliance.
In a statement released by the AFP, the joint exercises with Japan demonstrated the two countries’ commitment to upholding a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. The exercises are part of broader efforts to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, a concept that emphasizes respect for international law, freedom of navigation, and regional cooperation. By coming together for these drills, the Philippines and Japan aim to strengthen their defense ties and enhance their ability to respond to shared security challenges in the region.
The decision to hold joint exercises in the South China Sea sends a clear message to other regional actors, particularly China, which has asserted expansive territorial claims in the disputed waters. Both the Philippines and Japan have been vocal critics of China’s assertive behavior in the South China Sea, where Beijing has built and militarized artificial islands in defiance of international norms. The joint exercises serve as a visible display of solidarity between Manila and Tokyo in the face of these challenges.
Japan’s participation in military exercises in the South China Sea is significant due to its status as a major regional power and a close ally of the United States. Japan has been increasingly active in promoting a rules-based order and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, aligning with its strategic interests. The joint exercises with the Philippines represent another step in Japan’s efforts to deepen its security cooperation with regional partners and contribute to regional stability.
The successful completion of the joint exercises between the Philippines and Japan underscores the growing defense ties between the two countries. As both nations navigate complex security challenges in the region, cooperation and coordination between their armed forces will be crucial in safeguarding their shared interests and promoting peace and stability in the South China Sea. The exercises also serve as a reminder of the importance of regional partnerships in addressing common security concerns and upholding the rules-based international order.
