US and Philippine forces begin annual Salaknib exercises

The US Army Pacific Command and the Philippine Army have started their annual three-week Salaknib exercises.

According to Report, which cites Interfax, 5,000 military personnel will participate in the drills.

The goal of the exercises is to improve joint operations skills between the forces of both countries and to focus on territorial defense. The exercises will also include live-fire drills and experience exchanges.

The first phase of Salaknib is currently underway, with the second phase scheduled for later this year. These exercises are part of the two countries' annual Balikatan maneuvers.