The US and the Philippines have finalized plans for over 500 military engagements in 2026, marking a significant boost in their security partnership within the Indo-Pacific region.
The decision emerged from the annual Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board talks in Hawaii, co-led by AFP Chief Gen. Romeo Brawner and INDOPACOM Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo.
Central to the agreement is the signing of the 8-Star memo, which provides strategic guidance for upcoming operations, including the high-profile Balikatan 2026 exercises.
The schedule covers a wide spectrum of activities, from complex joint drills to expert exchanges, all geared toward improving interoperability and operational readiness.
Reaffirming Washington’s stance, INDOPACOM underscored its role in maintaining a secure and stable Indo-Pacific, ready to collaborate with allies, counter threats, and respond to emerging crises.
The initiatives will proceed under the framework of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, with oversight from the longstanding Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board.
The announcement coincides with escalating tensions in the West Philippine Sea, where Chinese assertiveness has triggered maritime confrontations. In response, the US and the Philippines have expanded cooperation in training, air defense, and arms modernization, with Manila set to receive new fighter aircraft.
Regional allies have reinforced this effort: Japan will transfer six retired destroyers to the Philippine Navy, while Australia is doubling its military exchanges for 2025 to more than 20.
