00:00 The exercises of the Philippines and America are now underway,
00:04 for the first time, they will cross the territorial waters of the country.
00:08 This is also the first time for the French Navy to cross the waters.
00:11 Ian Cruz is the one who will be the judge.
00:13 In the midst of the rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea,
00:20 between the Philippines and China,
00:22 and the continuous harassment of China,
00:27 the 13th edition of the Balikatan exercise has started today.
00:32 It will last until May 10.
00:34 More than 16,000 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US military
00:39 will be trained in missions including maritime security,
00:44 air and missile defense, and dynamic missile strike.
00:47 There will be a contingent from the Australian Defense Force.
00:51 And for the first time in the history of the Balikatan,
00:54 the French Navy will be involved.
00:56 One of the groups is waiting for the multilateral maritime exercise.
01:01 In the exclusive economic zone of the country in the West Philippine Sea,
01:05 in the Palawan region.
01:06 This is the first time that the exercise will cross the territorial waters of the country.
01:11 We aim to enhance our defense capabilities.
01:15 Cooperation and military to military collaboration
01:19 play vital roles in ensuring a safer global community for generations to come.
01:26 Balikatan represents more than just a showcase of military readiness.
01:32 It embodies the deep-rooted spirit of collaboration and partnership
01:37 that has defined the enduring alliance between the United States and the Philippines for decades.
01:44 The government agencies will also participate.
01:47 The Philippine Coast Guard will provide security to the people involved in the maritime exercise.
01:53 Sir, if there is a Chinese militia or Chinese coast guard, will you approach them?
02:00 We will do what we need to do.
02:02 And we will ensure that no one will be disturbed or harmed in the exercise.
02:11 The Balikatan exercise director said that the exercise is not aimed at any country.
02:17 It's not really addressed to any aggressors.
02:20 But for the U.S., as we have been speaking, and the Philippine side,
02:25 it's more of the development of our interoperability.
02:29 I think well within your own sovereign rights and responsibilities,
02:36 we're conducting exercises that are normal.
02:42 No to U.S. Balikatan exercise.
02:46 The opening ceremony was accompanied by a protest by the new alliance of the people
02:51 and other groups to condemn the Balikatan exercises.
02:56 For GMA Integrated News, Ian Cruz, for 24 Hours.
03:01 [Music]
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