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AFP chief says 'Balikatan' 2025 exemplary

Philippine News Agency

By Priam Nepomuceno
May 9, 2025, 3:26 pm

MANILA -- This year's "Balikatan" drills showcased "exemplary demonstrations" of joint capabilities between participating Filipino and American military forces, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said on Friday.

"Over the recent weeks, we have witnessed exemplary demonstrations of joint capabilities ranging from live-fire operations and cyber defense to maritime security activities and humanitarian assistance efforts," he said during his speech at the "Balikatan" closing rites held at Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

About 14,000 Filipino, American, and other allied troops took part in the three-week exercises that began on April 21.

While noting the sterling performances of the participants, Brawner said the most valuable outcome of the exercise has "been the enhanced mutual trust, deeper understanding, and renewed commitment to shared security goals" between the participating nations.

"As we conclude the 40th iteration of Exercise 'Balikatan,' I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved. Your professionalism, discipline, and esprit de corps, from the planners to the front-line personnel, have been instrumental in ensuring the success and significance of this exercise," Brawner said.

He added that "Balikatan" is not merely a series of military exercises but also a demonstration of enduring partnerships and collaborative resolve.

"It embodies our collective readiness to act in unison, underscoring that our greatest strength lies in unity," he said.

"Moreover, this exercise reaffirms our dedication to peace, stability, and resilience across the Indo-Pacific Region."

Aside from boosting the capabilities of the participating nations, "Balikatan" has provided positive effects for humanitarian initiatives, supporting education, delivering medical care, and fostering local development, Brawner said.

"Although these contributions may not make headlines, they are indeed vital to building a stable and inclusive community," he said.

Brawner noted that allies, observers, and partners in this year's "Balikatan" have deepened their collective commitment to regional peace and security.

"Today, we are forging not only stronger armed forces, but a more secure world. As we look ahead, may the success of 'Balikatan' 40-2025 serve as a foundation for enhanced collaboration, sustained engagement, and greater inclusivity in future exercises, promoting peace, prosperity, and stability in our region and beyond," he added. (PNA)