On Monday, November 4, the Philippine military initiated a two-week series of combat exercises aimed at fortifying its defense capabilities, including training to seize control of an island in the disputed South China Sea. These drills, involving more than 3,000 personnel from the Philippine army, navy, and air force, underscore the growing tensions in the region where China continues to assert extensive territorial claims. Philippine military officials emphasized that these drills are not aimed at any specific nation, though China is anticipated to observe the maneuvers with close attention.
The South China Sea, rich in marine resources and holding significant strategic importance, has been a hotspot of territorial disputes involving multiple countries. China claims nearly the entirety of the South China Sea, drawing its demarcation lines based on a controversial “nine-dash line.” This claim overlaps with the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Taiwan, making it a focal point for regional tensions.
In recent years, China has bolstered its presence by transforming several reefs and atolls into artificial islands outfitted with military installations, airstrips, and radar systems. This increased militarization has led to numerous confrontations, particularly with the Philippines and Vietnam, who have each intensified their own maritime defenses in response.
The ongoing Philippine drills represent a significant step in its military’s strategic recalibration, reflecting concerns over sovereignty and regional security.
According to Philippine military officials, the current exercises will include live-fire drills using artillery and assault rifles, as well as simulated beach landings. The most significant portion of the drills will center around an exercise to seize control of an island, simulating a scenario that would likely involve the assertion of sovereignty over disputed territories in the South China Sea.
“Our mission today is very clear: to prepare ourselves comprehensively to respond to any external threats that might challenge our sovereignty,” said General Romeo Brawner Jr, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief, during the opening ceremony of the exercises. His statement reflects the Philippines’ strategic aim to reinforce its territorial defense capabilities, particularly in contested waters.
Philippine Army Colonel Michael Logico added that Filipino forces would simulate a takeover of an island, a maneuver that aligns with the Philippine military’s broader efforts to ensure readiness for potential conflict scenarios. Logico downplayed any expectations of direct Chinese interference but acknowledged that Chinese surveillance from a distance would likely take place. “They have a front seat to the exercise. They’ll watch, and we don’t mind,” Logico told reporters.
China’s growing military capabilities and increased presence in the South China Sea have created friction with neighboring nations, with recent incidents underscoring the region’s volatility. Last month, Indonesia’s patrol ships reportedly expelled a Chinese coast guard vessel that was interfering with a survey by an Indonesian state-owned energy company. Such incidents reflect China’s assertive strategy of using both military and paramilitary forces to enforce its claims.
China’s rapid military expansion in the South China Sea has not only heightened tensions with the Philippines but has also led to diplomatic and military friction with other Southeast Asian nations. China’s official stance emphasizes a preference for bilateral negotiations, but its deployment of coast guard and naval assets in contested waters has challenged this narrative, raising alarms within the international community.
Beijing’s actions are part of a larger effort to exert control over strategic maritime zones, often through “gray zone” tactics that fall short of open warfare but serve to intimidate other claimants. By employing coast guard vessels and maritime militia, China effectively projects power without outright military conflict, but this approach has led to more frequent encounters with neighboring countries’ naval and coast guard forces.
The Philippines’ decision to enhance its defense capabilities through joint exercises and domestic military expansion aligns with broader Indo-Pacific security strategies. The outgoing Biden administration has reinforced its commitment to military alliances within the region, establishing an arc of allied countries positioned to counterbalance China’s influence. Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy includes a significant focus on securing freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and airspace, a policy the Philippines supports given its own maritime challenges.
As part of these efforts, the United States and the Philippines have planned their largest annual joint exercises, known as “Balikatan,” for next year. Meaning “shoulder-to-shoulder” in Tagalog, Balikatan will involve combat maneuvers in contested South China Sea areas, a symbolic show of strength for both the Philippine and U.S. militaries. These drills will not only test military readiness but are intended as a deterrent against any potential aggression.
With the Mutual Defense Treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines, Washington has pledged to come to Manila’s aid if Filipino forces or assets are attacked in the Pacific, including the South China Sea. This pact remains a cornerstone of the Philippines’ security policy and a vital element of regional stability in the face of an assertive China.
China has historically expressed disapproval of military drills in the South China Sea, especially those involving the United States or its allies. In response to the ongoing Philippine exercises, Beijing has so far refrained from any formal opposition, though diplomatic sources suggest that China is closely monitoring the situation. The Chinese government’s stance may intensify if future exercises include forces from allied nations, such as the United States.
Chinese analysts argue that such exercises serve only to escalate regional tensions, pointing to Beijing’s preference for diplomatic engagement rather than military displays. However, regional governments, including the Philippines, contend that these exercises are essential for their defense against potential coercion and serve to strengthen their ability to respond to territorial incursions.
Neighboring countries are watching the Philippines’ maneuvers with interest. Vietnam, which shares similar maritime challenges with China, has also expanded its military exercises and defense budgets. Although Indonesia is not a claimant in the Spratly Islands, Jakarta has voiced concerns over Beijing’s claims near the Natuna Islands, an area within Indonesia’s EEZ, and has enhanced its maritime security capabilities accordingly.
