US, Australia, Canada, and Philippines Conduct Joint Military Drills in South China Sea

MANILA, Philippines – In a significant display of military cooperation, the United States, Australia, Canada, and the Philippines conducted joint air and naval exercises on Wednesday, aimed at reinforcing the rule of law in the contested South China Sea. This region has seen escalating territorial claims from China, prompting the four nations to emphasize their commitment to international law and maritime rights. In a show of force, China responded with its own air and sea combat patrols, closely monitoring the maneuvers. The Philippine military reported that three Chinese navy vessels shadowed the joint exercises, although further details were not disclosed. U.S. Indo-Pacific Command leader Adm. Samuel Paparo, along with military leaders from the participating nations, stated their unified stance against maritime challenges and their dedication to maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific. The exercises included combined sea passage maneuvers and communications drills, with an emphasis on enhancing interoperability among the armed forces. Rear Adm. Roy Trinidad of the Philippine Navy clarified that the drills were not aimed at any specific country but were a collective affirmation of support for international norms. Meanwhile, China conducted its own patrols near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, although the Philippine military did not observe any such activities in that area. The military leaders reiterated their commitment to freedom of navigation and respect for maritime rights, affirming a 2016 arbitration ruling that invalidated China's extensive claims in the South China Sea. Despite this, China has consistently rejected the ruling, leading to heightened tensions and fears of potential conflict in the region.