Palayan city: The Exercise "Salaknib" Phase 1, featuring the participation of over 7,000 soldiers from the Philippines, Japan, the United States, and Australia, officially commenced at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija.
According to Philippines News Agency, Philippine Army (PA) vice commander Maj. Gen. Efren Morados emphasized the importance of building alliances and creating opportunities for soldiers to learn from each other. He highlighted that Salaknib aims to strengthen combined arms operations, enhance multi-domain interoperability, and bolster a resilient regional security architecture.
US 25th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. James Bartholomees underscored the significance of the exercise from the perspective of the United States, which has been a longstanding ally of the Philippines. He noted the enduring bond between the two nations, forged 73 years ago, which is characterized by shared sacrifice, trust, and friendship. He also mentioned that the unity and resolve of their land forces serve as a deterrent to potential adversaries.
This year marks the first time that the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the Australian Army are participating in "Salaknib," making it the largest training exercise involving like-minded armies to date. The PA and the United States Army Pacific have been collaborating on "Salaknib" since 2015, with the training rooted in the Mutual Defense Treaty between the two countries.
"Salaknib" Phase 1 is scheduled from April 6 to 17 and will be followed by Exercise "Balikatan" from April to May, and "Salaknib" Phase 2 from May to June. The multilateral exercises will focus on maritime and territorial defense, humanitarian assistance, and disaster response, along with amphibious and combined arms operations.
The PA's commitment to these exercises demonstrates its readiness and determination to address multiple threats. The name "Salaknib," meaning shield in Ilocano, symbolizes the historical bond between the Philippines and the United States, dating back to World War II when Filipino and American troops fought alongside each other.
