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PALAWAN,PHILIPPINES:The Philippines has launched Exercise Alon 25, its largest overseas military drill for 2025, bringing together forces from Australia, the United States, Canada, and the host nation for two weeks of amphibious and maritime live-fire exercises.The opening ceremony was held on Friday, Ag. 15, at a military base in Palawan, attended by high-ranking officials, including Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. and Australian Deputy Head of Mission Moya Collett.This year’s Amphibious and Land Operations Exercise (ALON) involves approximately 3,600 personnel, with troops from Australia (Australian Defence Force – ADF), the United States (US Marine Corps), Canada (Royal Canadian Navy), and the Philippines (AFP). Additionally, observers from Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and Indonesia are monitoring the drills, which run from August 15 to 29.Vice Admiral Justin Jones, Australia’s Chief of Joint Operations, stated that Alon 25 highlights the deepening defense ties between Australia and the Philippines. Since its inception in 2023, the exercise has expanded to include maritime, land, and air operations, supported by cyber and space domains.The Australian Defence Force (ADF) is deploying HMAS Brisbane (Hobart-class destroyer), Super Hornets, Growlers, and Hercules aircraft, as well as armoured, engineering, and artillery units. Key activities include amphibious landings, maritime live-fire drills, and joint force projection via airlift operations.The drills come as regional tensions escalate, particularly in the South China Sea, where China has increased military activities. While the exercise was planned in advance, its focus on amphibious warfare and maritime security underscores the strategic concerns of participating nations.(Footage by Daniel Ceng/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)