The Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) demonstrated its combat readiness and joint operational capabilities during a high-powered counter-landing live-fire drill held on June 4, marking the culmination of the KAMANDAG 09-25 military exercise.
Conducted along the rugged northern coastline of Luzon, the drill simulated a defensive response to an amphibious enemy assault.
The exercise showcased the Marines’ rapid reaction capabilities and seamless coordination in repelling seaborne threats.
Fire support was delivered through synchronized missions involving 105mm and 155mm howitzers, direct fire from Light Armored Vehicles, and aerial reconnaissance operations by the Naval Air Wing’s AW109 helicopters.
The joint maneuver highlighted the effective integration of air and ground assets in real-time combat scenarios.
Military observers from the United States, France, the Netherlands, and Thailand witnessed the exercise, underlining KAMANDAG’s growing role as a platform for regional security cooperation and joint force interoperability across the Indo-Pacific region.
“This high-impact training event was closely observed by military partners from the United States, France, Netherlands, and Thailand, highlighting the expanding role of KAMANDAG as a platform for regional security cooperation and joint force development in the Indo-Pacific,” the PMC said.
A total of 2,028 personnel from the Philippines joined the exercises while the United States deployed 2,031 Marines to participate in the event.
KAMANDAG, which stands for Kaagapay ng mga Mandirigma ng Dagat, underscores the longstanding defense partnership between the Philippines and the United States amid evolving regional security challenges.
