MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines said war games with the U.S. that ended April 27 had showcased its resolve to fend off external aggressors amid an escalating territorial dispute with China.
Philippine Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin also said the 12 days of exercises, which included more than 6,000 soldiers, had firmed up a 1951 mutual defense treaty between the longtime allies.
“This training activity ... demonstrates our unequivocal resolve to support each other against the threats of external aggression and the enemies of freedom and liberty,” Gazmin said in a statement.
The exercises were held amid the backdrop of a dispute between the Philippines and China over a shoal in the South China Sea, with both nations stationing vessels there for nearly three weeks to assert their sovereignty.
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