Philippines expands defence focus with Japan and wider Balikatan drills
The Philippines is widening its defence planning with Japan and preparing to expand its Balikatan military exercises beyond the country's waters, according to remarks by senior officials on Friday.Defence chief Gilberto Teodoro said the Diaoyu Islands are now considered a "serious concern".He made the comment after bilateral talks with Japan's defence minister, Shinjiro Koizumi, earlier in the week.Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jnr also said future Balikatan war games would not be confined to waters within the South China Sea that Manila considers under its territory.He said the exercise area would be broadened as part of discussions... [Continue Reading]
360LiveNews | 08 May 2026 05:00 LONDON
