The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) reaffirmed on Wednesday that its joint military exercises with allied nations within the country’s maritime domains are neither provocative nor aggressive.
Responding to China’s criticism of joint patrols as “maritime infringement provocations,” AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla clarified that such activities are a demonstration of preparedness and the exercise of sovereign rights.
“The AFP stands firm in exercising our sovereign rights within our maritime domain. The conduct of joint exercises and maritime domain awareness operations within our territorial waters and exclusive economic zone is not a provocation—it is preparedness,” she said.
Padilla also emphasized that these operations are deliberate and lawful, rooted in international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). She further highlighted that these efforts reflect a forward-looking, responsible approach to defense.
The AFP official also noted that the Philippines’ partnerships with allies such as the United States embody shared values and a collective commitment to peace, security, and upholding a rules-based international order.
“As emphasized by AFP chief of staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., ‘we will assess our readiness in all domains—air, land, sea, cyber, information, and the emerging frontier of space—through comprehensive exercises that integrate tactical precision with strategic foresight,’” she said.
“To be clear: the Philippines is a sovereign state. No foreign power can dictate how we defend our home or with whom we stand in solidarity,” Padilla added.
She also maintained that the AFP remains resolute in its mission to defend and promote a peaceful, secure, and stable region with unity, professionalism, and strategic clarity.