Why are US-Philippine military drills now at their largest since 2015?

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US-Philippine Military Drills Scale Up Amid Shifting Regional Dynamics

The Philippines and the United States have commenced their largest joint military exercises since 2015, involving 8,900 troops. This significant increase in scale underscores a strengthening of defence ties between the two nations. The annual "Balikatan" exercises are designed to enhance the Philippines' defensive capabilities and readiness to respond to crises.
Resumption of Large-Scale Exercises

The "Balikatan" exercises, meaning "shoulder-to-shoulder," are currently at their most extensive since 2015. This year's iteration includes live fire exercises and training with amphibious assault vehicles, elements that had been reduced or removed in previous years. The drills are scheduled to last for two weeks.
Historical Context of Balikatan Drills

Historically, the "Balikatan" exercises have been a cornerstone of the US-Philippine security relationship, serving to enhance interoperability and readiness. However, in 2017, the scale of troop participation was nearly halved, and combat-related exercises were notably absent. This reduction occurred at the direction of then-President Rodrigo Duterte, who was pursuing warmer relations with China. While live fire exercises resumed in subsequent years, the drills remained smaller in scope until the current expansion. The exercises were also cancelled in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with only 640 troops participating in 2021.
Message of a Strengthened Alliance

Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana stated that the current drills send a clear message that the alliance between the Philippines and the United States is stronger than ever. This assertion comes after a period where President Duterte had sought closer ties with China, influenced by pledges of loans, aid, and investment, and had distanced the Philippines from the US. However, Duterte's administration later withdrew a threat to abrogate a two-decade-old pact governing the presence of US troops, signalling a recalibration of foreign policy.
Regional Tensions as a Backdrop

The increased scale of these joint drills occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions in the South China Sea. Manila has been critical of China's maritime activities in disputed areas, citing instances such as the alleged presence of militia-manned fishing vessels and the blockade of a military resupply mission. Recently, the Philippines summoned China's ambassador to protest the "illegal intrusion and lingering presence" of a Chinese navy vessel within Philippine waters. China maintains a vast claim over the South China Sea, a critical global trade route.

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Why are US-Philippine military drills now at their largest since 2015?

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