The navies of the Philippines, Australia, and Canada conducted a joint sail in the South China Sea on Tuesday, amid rising regional tensions following a collision between two Chinese vessels last week.
The exercise involved the Philippine frigate BRP Jose Rizal, Australian destroyer HMAS Brisbane, and Canadian frigate HMCS Ville de Quebec.
Colonel Dennis Fernandez of the Philippine military emphasized that the operation was not directed at any country, stating it “is anchored on the free and open Indo-Pacific with peace and prosperity in the region.” The joint sail took place within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.
The operation is part of the ongoing 15-day military drills between the Philippines and Australia, known as ALON, a Filipino word meaning “wave”, which began on August 15. The exercises include amphibious and land operations, as well as live-fire drills designed to strengthen interoperability between the two militaries.
This year’s iteration is the largest to date, involving 3,600 troops and featuring contributions from Canadian naval forces and U.S. Marines.
ALON, launched in 2023, the same year the Philippines and Australia elevated their ties to a strategic partnership, aims to address growing security challenges in the region, including safeguarding the South China Sea, where $3 trillion in annual maritime commerce passes.
Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Philippine Navy spokesperson, said Manila plans to increase joint sails with foreign partners, noting that such activities help deter China’s aggressive actions in the disputed waters.
Since late 2023, the Philippines has also conducted maritime cooperative exercises with the United States and, earlier this month, held its first joint sail with India in the South China Sea.
Written By Rodney Mbua
