Some fear US-Philippines war games are drawing conflict closer to home
The recent US-Philippines military exercises, known as Balikatan, have raised concerns among critics about the potential for increased conflict in the region. Activists argue that the close military cooperation with the US could make the Philippines a target in future confrontations, particularly with China. Local communities have also reported disruptions to their livelihoods due to the military drills.
- ▪The Balikatan exercises involved over 17,000 soldiers from six countries, with a significant presence from the US military.
- ▪Critics believe that the Philippines' alignment with the US could provoke adversaries and increase the risk of conflict.
- ▪Local fishing and farming communities have experienced disruptions due to the military operations in their areas.
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News|MilitarySome fear US-Philippines war games are drawing conflict closer to homeCritics of US, Philippine military cooperation say closely aligning with Washington makes Manila a possible target in a future conflict.ListenListen (11 mins)SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoA Filipino soldier, right, practises holding a weapon as part of the annual US-Philippines joint military exercises called "Balikatan" at Fort Magsaysay, Nueva Ecija province, Philippines, in 2023 [File: Eloisa Lopez/Reuters]By Michael BeltranPublished On 23 May 202623 May 2026Quezon City – On a highway in the Ilocos Norte province earlier this month, Father Arvin Mangrubang of the Philippine Independent Church slowly drove opposite…
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