Archive · 27 Jan 2026
Philippines, US hold joint drill in disputed South China Sea
The Philippines and the United States recently held a joint military exercise in a disputed area of the South China Sea called the Scarborough Shoal.
This is the 11th such drill since November 2023.
The Philippines used a frigate, a coast guard vessel, and some planes and helicopters, while the U.S. sent a guided missile destroyer and a helicopter.
China, which claims most of the South China Sea, said the drill disrupts peace and stability.
The Philippines has been working more closely with the U.S. in response to China's increasing presence in the area.
China also conducted a routine patrol in the South China Sea but did not specify the location.
The Philippines and the United States conducted a joint military drill at the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea.
The drill involved Philippine and U.S. naval and air assets, including a frigate, a coast guard vessel, and helicopters.
China accused the Philippines of disrupting peace and stability by organizing joint patrols with countries outside the region.
The Philippines has increased military engagements with the U.S. under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in response to China's growing presence.
China claims sovereignty over nearly all the South China Sea, including areas within the exclusive economic zones of other countries.
- Who
- Philippines, United States, China
- What
- Joint military drill in the disputed South China Sea
- When
- This week, with a statement released on January 27, 2024
- Where
- Scarborough Shoal, South China Sea
- Why
- To enhance cooperation between treaty allies and respond to China's growing presence
- Countries Involved
- Philippines, United States, China
- Location
- Scarborough Shoal, South China Sea
- Philippine Vessels
- Frigate Antonio Luna, Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel, two military planes, one helicopter
- US Vessels
- Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer John Finn, MH-60R Seahawk helicopter
- Chinese Response
- Routine patrol, accusation of disrupting peace and stability
- Philippine President
- Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
- Chinese Claim
- Sovereignty over nearly all the South China Sea