A national security expert said that the country’s joint drills with ally nations contribute greatly towards its national security.
UP Diliman senior lecturer Dr. Chester Cabalza told Manila Standard that different military activities with Manila counterparts help the Philippines strengthen its defense capabilities.
“Malaki ang ambag nito sa ating national security dahil mas pinapalakas nito ang ating defense network globally. Tumutulong din sila sa interoperability ng mga defense forces na kaanib natin,” he said.
Around a thousand Filipino troops have already benefitted in different exercises with Manila allies, an Army official earlier said.
Philippine Army Spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala told Manila Standard that the training exercises between the Philippine Army, U.S. Army, as well as with Manila’s foreign defense partners enhances their forces’ tactics, techniques and procedures across a wide range of military operations.
“These also enhance interoperability and support the capability development of participating units and personnel,” he remarked.
Dema-ala also said that an exchange of information exposes Philippine troops to advanced capabilities and technologies.
Cabalza on the other hand also explained that cooperation with super power nations contributes to the Philippines’ stand in the disputed area in West Philippine Sea, adding that it also symbolizes confidence.
“Malaking bagay na pinapalawig at pinapalakas natin ang pakikipag-alyansa sa mga malalakas na bansa lalo na ito ang nagpapatunay na totoo ang mga sinasabi at paniniwala natin sa West Philippine Sea. Ito rin ang nagbibigay ng kumpyansa sa atin na hindi tayo nag-iisa sa laban na ito,” he explained.
He also assured that despite reports of selling sensitive information about defense, Philippine troops have strong allegiance to its flag and will defend Manila’ s right under international laws.
“Kung may US soldier na nagbebenta ng datos sa China, hindi ito kabawasan sa mga Pilipinong sundalo dahil dapat tayo pa rin ang manguna sa atin problema sa seguridad ng Pilipinas at hindi ang mga Amerikano at Intsik,” he stressed.
