PH Military Exercises with Allies Aim to Uphold Regional Peace, Says Security Adviser

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año affirmed that the Philippines' military exercises with allied nations, including Australia, are not intended to disrupt peace in the region. In response to recent criticism from a Chinese defense spokesman concerning "Exercise Alon 2025," Año emphasized that Philippine actions do not pose threats to regional stability.

The bilateral naval drills, conducted from August 15 to 29, took place in the contested West Philippine Sea, a hotspot in the broader South China Sea dispute. Chinese defense ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang accused the Philippines of seeking external influence to fuel tensions and accused it of undermining stability.

Año countered these allegations by pointing out that it is China that has increased its assertiveness over the West Philippine Sea, frequently harassing Philippine vessels and fishermen. "Our Navy, Coast Guard, and Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources vessels are not the ones conducting intimidation or aggression against other ships," he stated.

Highlighting that joint air and sea patrols, as well as multilateral exercises like Exercise ALON 2025, are standard security measures undertaken with allied partners, Año reiterated that these operations support a free and open Indo-Pacific and uphold the rule of law.

“These activities reflect the Philippine government’s steadfast commitment to regional peace and stability, showcasing our preparedness to confront evolving security threats,” Año added.

He also welcomed recent survey data from OCTA Research showing strong public support for defending the country’s maritime rights, with 76 percent of Filipinos in favor. Moreover, the survey revealed significant distrust toward China, with 85 percent expressing skepticism and 74 percent viewing China as the greatest threat. Año said these findings underscore the nation's resolve and solidarity.

"This enhances our call for vigilance and national unity," he commented, "reflecting the Filipino people’s clear understanding of the challenges and backing for government efforts to safeguard sovereignty, sovereign rights, and territorial integrity."

Año concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding its claims under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Philippine Maritime Zones Act. Strengthening defense capabilities, deepening alliances with like-minded countries, and working relentlessly toward peace remain key priorities.

"The voice of the Filipino people is unequivocal: asserting our rights in the West Philippine Sea is not merely policy but a shared national cause. With strong popular support, we remain resolute and determined," he declared.