Archive · 26 Jul 2026
US, Japan join Philippines in South China Sea drills
The US, Japan, and the Philippines recently held joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea.
These exercises aimed to improve cooperation among the allies and promote stability in the region.
Meanwhile, there were some tense moments between the Philippines and China.
The Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard personnel of hitting a Filipino sailor with a baton, while China said the Philippine vessels attacked first.
Additionally, the Philippine Coast Guard reported that Chinese vessels fired water cannons at them near Scarborough Shoal, but China claimed it was responding to Philippine intrusions.
The Philippines' new military chief visited Thitu Island to support the troops stationed there.
US, Japan, and Philippines conducted joint maritime exercises in the South China Sea from July 21 to 25.
The exercises involved warships, coast guard vessels, and aircraft to improve interoperability among allies.
Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard of striking a Filipino sailor with a baton at Second Thomas Shoal.
China claimed Philippine vessels attacked first and rammed Chinese boats.
Philippine Coast Guard reported Chinese vessels fired water cannons at them near Scarborough Shoal.
China said it took legal measures after Philippine vessels intruded.
Philippines' new chief of staff visited Thitu Island to support troops and strengthen operational capabilities.
- Who
- US, Japan, Philippines, China
- What
- Joint maritime exercises and incidents between vessels
- When
- July 21 to 25
- Where
- South China Sea
- Why
- To promote peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region and push back against China’s claims
Philippines and Allies
China
Incident at Second Thomas Shoal
Philippines and Allies
Chinese Coast Guard personnel struck a Filipino sailor with a baton.
China
Philippine vessels attacked first and rammed Chinese boats.
Scarborough Shoal Incident
Philippines and Allies
Philippine Coast Guard reported Chinese vessels fired water cannons at Philippine government vessels.
China
China claimed it took legal measures after Philippine vessels intruded.
- Date of Drills
- July 21 to 25
- Participants
- US, Japan, Philippines
- Location
- South China Sea (exact location not disclosed)
- Incident at Second Thomas Shoal
- July 20
- Incident at Scarborough Shoal
- July 22 and 23
- Philippine Chief of Staff Visit
- July 24
- Thitu Island Location
- About 300 miles west of Palawan