(Manila, 19th) Japan will participate in next year’s ‘Salaknib’ military exercise for the first time, training alongside Philippine and US soldiers, Colonel Louie Dema-ala, spokesperson for the Philippine Army (PA), revealed today at a press conference in Camp Aguinaldo.
He pointed out that this is Japan’s first time joining the annual US-Philippines joint military exercise.
“According to the initial planning meeting, this is the first time Japan will participate,” he said.
“According to the initial planning meeting, this is the first time Japan will participate,” he said.
Coincidentally, the Philippine-Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) will officially take effect on September 11 this year. This agreement, in addition to enhancing interoperability between the two countries’ armed forces, also affirms both parties’ readiness to respond to new challenges and opportunities at any time.
As for the number of Japanese participants, Dema-ala said there is not yet a final figure.
“Currently, there is no finalized number yet,” he said.
“Currently, there is no finalized number yet,” he said.
In addition to Japan, Australia is also expected to actively participate in the 2026 ‘Salaknib’ exercise.
He added that the current planning focuses on the exercise itself, rather than the capabilities of the participating parties.
‘Salaknib’ means ‘shield’ in the Ilocano language, symbolizing the historical ties between the Philippines and the United States since fighting side by side during World War II. The exercise began in 2016.