Australia’s Defense Minister Richard Marles met with his Philippine counterpart Gilberto Teodoro Jr. in Manila on Friday, as both nations ramp up military cooperation in response to escalating Chinese activity in the South China Sea. The talks come at a time when Filipino forces remain on high alert following the deployment of additional Chinese coast guard vessels near a contested maritime outpost.
Marles is in the Philippines to observe “Exercise Alon,” the largest joint combat drills ever conducted between the two countries. The two-week operation involves over 3,600 troops and showcases Australia’s expanding military capabilities, including guided-missile destroyers, F/A-18 fighter jets, C-130 aircraft, Javelin anti-tank systems, and elite sniper units.
This weekend, Marles is expected to witness a simulated amphibious beach assault in a coastal town facing the South China Sea an area increasingly marked by strategic friction. Following their bilateral meeting, both defense ministers will sign a joint statement pledging to strengthen interoperability, deterrence, and long-term readiness to safeguard regional stability.
China has voiced strong opposition to the drills, which it views as provocative in waters it claims almost entirely. The disputed sea lane, vital to global trade, has seen a surge in confrontations involving Chinese forces and vessels from the US, Australia, and the Philippines. These encounters have raised fears of a broader conflict in one of Asia’s most volatile flashpoints.
As regional alliances tighten and joint exercises intensify, Australia and the Philippines are signaling a clear message: they are prepared to stand firm in defense of sovereignty, maritime freedom, and the rules-based international order.
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