Is Philippines' debut in Australia-US war games the ‘new normal' in regional defence ties?
Analysts say the move reflects Manila's broader strategy of reinforcing defence ties, not just with Washington but also with like-minded regional powers, as US allies increasingly seek to diversify their security relationships and assert greater strategic autonomy amid uncertainty over US President
Donald Trump 's foreign policy.
Thirty-two personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines are taking part in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, which is being held in several Australian cities, including Rockhampton, Townsville, Brisbane and Sydney.
The biennial drills feature more than 35,000 troops from 19 nations, including Canada, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom.
The exercises are reportedly expected to draw surveillance from China, and also mark the use of Australia's newly acquired M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, a long-range weapon system the country has recently purchased from the US.
Colonel Xerxes Trinidad, chief of the armed forces' public affairs office, said Manila's participation 'reflects the Philippines' commitment to regional peace and security and further strengthens military ties with key allies and defence partners'.
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