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Nothing provocative over PH's joint drills with allies - AFP

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
April 30, 2025, 12:39 pm

MANILA -- The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on Wednesday said there is nothing provocative over its holding of joint exercises with its allies within the Philippines' maritime domains.

AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla issued the statement after China criticized the country's joint patrols with its allies, calling it maritime infringement provocations.

"The AFP stands firm in exercising our sovereign rights within our maritime domain. The conduct of joint exercises and maritime domain awareness operations within our territorial waters and exclusive economic zone is not a provocation —it is preparedness," she added.

Padilla also said these joint exercises are deliberate, lawful actions anchored on international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

The AFP spokesperson said these actions are solidly rooted in "responsible and forward-looking defense."

Padilla added the Philippines' partnership with long-standing allies like the United States reflect shared values and a collective commitment to safeguarding peace, security, and the rules-based international order.

She said these collaborative efforts reinforce not just military capability but mutual trust and strategic interoperability.

"As emphasized by AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., 'We will assess our readiness in all domains —air, land, sea, cyber, information, and the emerging frontier of space— through comprehensive exercises that integrate tactical precision with strategic foresight.' To be clear: the Philippines is a sovereign state. No foreign power can dictate how we defend our home or with whom we stand in solidarity," Padilla said.

She also maintained that the AFP remains resolute in its mission to defend and promote a peaceful, secure, and stable region with unity, professionalism, and strategic clarity. (PNA)