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The Philippine and U.S. militaries sailed unneurotic astatine a disputed South China Sea shoal this week, Manila’s equipped forces said on Tuesday (January 27, 2026), performing associated exercises to boost interoperability betwixt the 2 pact allies.
The associated sail was held successful the Scarborough Shoal successful South China Sea waters lying wrong the Philippines’ exclusive economical zone, which China besides claims arsenic portion of its territory. It was the 11th “maritime cooperative activity” involving the United States and the Philippines since November 2023.
“The palmy behaviour of these activities enhanced coordination, tactical proficiency, and communal knowing betwixt allied forces,” the Philippine armed forces said successful a statement.
The joint sail showcased the Philippines’ frigate Antonio Luna, a Philippine coast defender offshore patrol vessel, arsenic good arsenic 2 subject planes and a helicopter.
The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command deployed the USS John Finn, an Arleigh Burke-class guided rocket destroyer and an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter.
Military engagements betwixt the pact allies person soared nether President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has pivoted person to Washington successful effect to China’s increasing beingness in the South China Sea.
China claims sovereignty over astir each the South China Sea, including parts of the exclusive economical zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.
