Philippines and Japan Conduct First Joint Military Exercises in South China Sea

The drills mark a significant step in regional cooperation amid rising tensions with China.

The exercises took place within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone and involved two vessels from each country.
This collaboration follows a recent military pact allowing the deployment of forces on each other's soil.
Japan and the Philippines aim to bolster regional security and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Similar exercises were conducted between the Philippines and the United States earlier in the week.
China's expansive territorial claims in the South China Sea have led to increased military activities in the region.