The 3,800 AFP members and 5,100 U.S. military personnel will focus their training on maritime security, amphibious operations, live-fire training, urban operations, aviation operations, counterterrorism, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
U.S. Embassy in the Philippines Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Heather Variava said Balikatan is a critical opportunity to work with its Philippine allies toward a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific that is more connected, prosperous, secure, and resilient,’ as their Indo-Pacific Strategy calls for.
Variava said the U.S. is proud to continue its participation in the said long-standing exercise.
“During Balikatan, the U.S. military and AFP will train together to expand and advance shared tactics, techniques, and procedures that strengthen our response capabilities and readiness for real-world challenges,” said Maj. Gen. Jay Bargeron, 3rd Marine Division Commanding General. “The friendship and trust between our forces will enable us to accomplish any mission across the spectrum of military operations,” she said
The exercise also includes a command post exercise that tests the AFP and U.S. forces’ ability to plan, command, and communicate with each other in a simulated environment. This training will bolster the collective security and defensive capabilities of the alliance.
AFP Exercise Director for Balikatan 22 Maj. Gen. Charlton Sean Gaerlan said the Balikatan Exercise is a testament on the strength of the Philippines and United States’ security relationship.
“The experience gained in the exercise complements our security cooperation endeavors and will help to enhance existing mutual security efforts,” Gaerlan said.
The AFP and U.S. military will also conduct multiple humanitarian and civic assistance projects during this year’s Balikatan, including the renovation of four elementary schools, multiple community health engagements, and the exchange of advanced emergency rescue and lifesaving techniques.
These construction projects, health engagements and community relations events improve local infrastructure, facilitate the exchange of lifesaving medical skills, and strengthen ties between Philippine communities and Philippine and American military forces.
COVID-19 mitigation remains a priority for both nations. U.S. forces will comply with all Philippine government COVID-19 travel regulations and will maintain social distance and wear face masks during exercises as operationally feasible.
Photo: US Embassy
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