Army's 2025 arms exercise expands to Visayas, Mindanao
Philippine News Agency
By Priam Nepomuceno
February 17, 2025, 6:33 pm
MANILA -- Philippine Army (PA) chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido on Monday said this year's iteration of the so-called "Combined Arms Exercise" (CATEX) "Katihan" will expand to Camp Kibaritan in Bukidnon and Camp Gen. Mariano Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz.
He said the two new venues will be in addition to the traditional training area in Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija.
The inclusion of new training venues in the Visayas and Mindanao highlights the nationwide scope of the exercise and the need to test the large-scale movement of troops given the archipelagic nature of the country, he noted.
Galido also said "Katihan, slated from March 3 to 12, will focus on "command-and-control".
"This exercise will test our combat readiness and demonstrate our adaptability and ability to execute complex, high-stakes operations with precision. We are confident that the outcomes of this exercise will strengthen our command-and-control capabilities, further enhancing our preparedness to respond to any challenge that may threaten our national security," he said in an interview.
CATEX "Katihan" is the second iteration of the PA-wide military maneuvers and will involve around 6,000 troops who will test fire platforms like tanks and artillery pieces.
"Command-and-control" refers to the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of the mission.
Galido said "command-and-control" is important for the Army's interoperability with the Navy and Air Force.
The 2025 CATEX "Katihan" also serves as the highlight of the 128th founding anniversary of the Philippine Army which banners the theme "Matatag na Sandigan ng Bagong Pilipinas." (PNA)
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