PBBM: U.S STARTS PATROL IN WEST PHILIPPINES SEA

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that the Philippines and the United States have started their three-day joint maritime and air patrols in the West Philippine Sea. According to the President, a collaborative effort between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States Indo-Pacific Command in the West Philippine Sea,” 

Marcos said it is the capacity of military equipment of both military forces to operate in conjunction with each other — in patrolling the area. “Through collaborative efforts, we aim to enhance regional security and foster a seamless partnership with the United States in safeguarding our shared interests,” he said.

This joint force is an opportunity for the Philippines and United States to exchange their views on security concerns and this is conducted by their “Balikatan” exercises held annually. The West Philippine Sea includes the Luzon Sea as well as the waters around, within, and adjacent to the Kalayaan Island Group and Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), according to Administrative Order No. 29 issued by former President Benigno Aquino III.