The United States and the Philippines have approved more than 500 joint military activities for 2026, further strengthening their defense cooperation across the Indo-Pacific.
The agreement was formalized during the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board meeting at Camp Smith, Hawaii, co-chaired by AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner and US INDOPACOM Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo.
Both leaders signed the annual 8-Star memo, which outlines directives and timelines for joint initiatives, including Balikatan 2026, the largest and longest-running bilateral exercise between the two nations.
The upcoming activities will range from large-scale exercises to subject matter expert forums, aimed at building stronger military-to-military ties and boosting operational preparedness.
INDOPACOM reiterated its commitment to regional stability, pledging to work with allies to deter threats, support peaceful growth, and respond decisively to crises.
The programs will be managed under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, coordinated through the Mutual Defense Board (since 1958) and Security Engagement Board (since 2006).
This announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese incursions and vessel clashes have intensified. Recent collaborations have included joint drills, air defense testing, arms transfers, and fighter jet acquisitions for the Philippines.
Regional partners are also stepping up support: Japan has pledged six decommissioned destroyers to Manila, while Australia plans over 20 joint activities in 2025, doubling the number from last year.
