Philippine, United States, and Australian troops conducted a Maritime Key Terrain Security Operation (MKTSO) near Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, as part of Exercise Balikatan 2025.
According to a statement from the Balikatan 2025 Combined Joint Information Bureau, the exercise took place on May 5.
“The exercise featured air and ground insertions, including MV-22 Osprey deployments and coordinated jungle maneuvers, simulating real-world challenges in securing strategic coastal terrain,” the organizers said.
“MKTSO showcased the enduring commitment of the Philippines, the United States, and Australia to regional security, cooperation, and collective defense across the Indo-Pacific,” the statement added.
Balikatan, an annual exercise between Manila and Washington, began on April 21, with approximately 17,000 troops participating in various activities. This year, Filipino and US troops are engaging in a full-scale battle exercise designed to simulate major hostilities.
On Friday, troops from both countries will conclude their two-week war games held in various areas across the country.
