More than 400 Filipino and Australian troops have begun the month-long Kasangga 2026-1 in the Bicol Region to enhance interoperability and strengthen defense cooperation between the two countries.
The joint exercise formally opened at Camp Elias Angeles in Pili with participation from 278 Philippine Army soldiers, 86 Australian Army personnel, and members of the Philippine Navy and Air Force.
Louie Dema-ala said the training supports the Philippine Army’s transition toward external security operations and builds on the inaugural Kasangga exercise held in 2024.
The bilateral activity includes coordinated military drills and operational exchanges designed to improve readiness and regional security cooperation.
Philippine and Australian defense forces continue to deepen military ties amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 27, 2026
