MANILA (Reuters) – The Philippines and the United States have conducted joint naval exercises for the fifth time in the South China Sea, Manila’s armed forces said on Sunday, in a move likely to anger China.
The Philippine military said in a statement that it held a “maritime cooperation activity” with the U.S. on Friday and Saturday, the first this year and the fifth in total since the launch of joint activities in 2023.
Security engagements between the two allies have increased under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has drawn closer to Washington, allowing the expansion of military bases accessible to U.S. forces, including facilities facing Taiwan.
The joint naval activity included the US carrier strike group Carl Vinson, two guided-missile destroyers, two helicopters and two F-18 Hornet aircraft.
The Philippine side deployed its frigate Antonio Luna, patrol ship Andres Bonifacio, two FA-50 fighter jets and air force search and rescue assets.
The activities “enhanced bilateral maritime cooperation and interoperability,” the Armed Forces of the Philippines said.
Their joint activity came as the Philippines called out China for the presence of Chinese coast guard vessels within its maritime zone, including a 165 m (541 ft) long ship they described as a “monster” due to its size.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment over the weekend.
