MANILA, Philippines — International naval drills in the West Philippine Sea serve as recognition of the Philippines' claims in the disputed waters, former Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio said. "The US conduct naval drills, they conduct naval drills and they point to the arbitral award," Carpio said. According to Carpio, these countries have operated with backing from countries with larger militaries such as the United States and Australia. Ongoing tensions, exercisesThe Philippines, the United States and other allies regularly conduct joint naval exercises in the West Philippine Sea. The most recent was the 14th Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity held from February 15 to 16, involving the Philippines, the United States and Australia.

Source: Philippine Star April 02, 2026 13:47 UTC