Philippine and US forces conducted war games in the South China Sea, sinking a decommissioned China-made Philippine Navy ship in a simulated attack exercise near Laoag.
The exercises, aimed at preventing aggressors from landing on Philippine soil, involved anti-ship missiles, rockets, cannon fire, and land-based artillery.
More than 16,700 troops from both countries participated in the annual military drills called Balikatan, held across the Philippines.
The drills come amid increased tensions between the Philippines and China over disputed South China Sea territories, with Beijing deploying numerous vessels to patrol and militarize the area.
China’s foreign ministry warned against military exercises targeting third parties, emphasizing the need to avoid escalating tensions in the region.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 9, 2024
