By Priam Nepomuceno
MANILA – Filipino and American troops further strengthened their combined operational readiness through “Salaknib” Phase 2’s operational maneuver (OPMAN), which was conducted across various training sites in Luzon from June 1 to 16, the spokesperson of the Philippine Army (PA) said on Thursday.
In a message to reporters, PA spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said the two-week OPMAN had Filipino and US soldiers integrating advanced technology, strategic mobility, and combined-arms capabilities into a single synchronized operation across Luzon.
“The drills also tested the ability of US and Philippine forces to rapidly integrate capabilities, conduct long-range movements, and execute combined operations across multiple environments,” he added.
Dema-ala said the OPMAN also incorporated maritime security operations, ground maneuver, strategic airlift, precision fires, and air assault operations, reinforcing the enduring partnership between the two allied nations.
“Salaknib” Phase 2 formally began mid-May and is scheduled to end this July, while “Salaknib” Phase 1 took place from April 6 to 17.
“Salaknib,” which means “Shield” in Ilocano, highlights the enduring alliance between the Philippines and the United States, enhancing interoperability and readiness through combined arms operations, multi-domain integration, and humanitarian assistance efforts for regional stability.
Japan airborne commander
As this developed, the commanding general of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s 1st Airborne, Maj. Gen. Ishihara Yoshitaka visited the Philippine Army (PA) headquarters in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on June 17.
PA vice commander, Maj. Gen. Efren Morados, who also expressed more future engagements between the two nations, welcomed him.
“In a display of Filipino hospitality, the Philippine Army also hosted a museum tour for Maj. Gen. Ishihara and his party,” Dema-ala said.
Tactical maneuvers
Meanwhile, the Philippine Navy’s (PN) guided-missile frigate BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-6) conducted naval tactical maneuver exercises on June 17 as part of their preparations for the upcoming “Rim of the Pacific” (RIMPAC) Exercise 2026.
Aside from BRP Miguel Malvar, other RIMPAC-bound ships include the Republic of Singapore Navy frigate RSS Steadfast (RSS-70), Italian Navy multi-purpose surface combatant ITS Giovanni delle Bande Nere (P-434), Japan Self-Defense Maritime Force destroyer JS Kongo (DDG-173), and the Republic of Korea Navy’s amphibious landing Ship ROKS Cheon Ja Bong (LST-687).
On the other hand, the Philippine Coast Guard’s BRP Gabriela Silang (OPV-8301) maintained a position astern of the naval vessels throughout the exercise.
The execution of these maneuvers aims to enhance the coordination and interoperability among participating nations, as well as to enhance the proficiency of the ship’s crew in ship handling and seamanship, the PN said.
The PN did not give the specific area where the naval drills took place for security reasons.
Earlier, the Navy announced that the BRP Miguel Malvar had reached Guam for a technical stop earlier this month.
“The PN underscores its unwavering commitment to strengthen maritime cooperation and readiness with like-minded allies,” it said.
This year’s RIMPAC is scheduled from June 24 to July 31 and will take place in Hawaiian waters. (PNA)
