AUSTRALIAN and Filipino troops are due to launch next week a military exercise in Palawan to enhance the special operation capabilities of both sides.
The exercise, dubbed Dawn Caracha 2023, will open on Monday next week (October 16) and will end on October 27, the Puerto Princesa City-based AFP Western Command said in a statement.
It said the 12-day exercise in El Nido town will “enhance the cooperation and interoperability between the special operations forces” of soldiers from the Philippine Army and Australian Defense.
Wescom said the exercise “will primarily focus on conducting counter-terrorism operations and special operations, showcasing the capabilities of the two forces.”
It said Filipino troops conducted “pre-exercise movements and operational briefings” last Saturday.
“The exercise presents an opportunity for both units to showcase their skills, strengthen their partnership, and foster increased collaboration,” Wescom said.
“By emphasizing interoperability and joint efforts within Wescom’s operational area, the exercise aims to enhance collaboration in tackling complex security challenges in the country’s western front,” added Wescom.
Wescom said the exercise “will also definitely contribute to regional security and foster closer cooperation between the Philippines and Australia.”
The Philippines and Australia have been conducting interoperability exercises but not as large scale as the exercises Filipino and US troops have been holding.
Australia and the Philippines signed a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement in 2007 or 11 years after the Philippines and the US signed a Visiting Forces Agreement. These agreements provide a legal framework for the conduct of military exercises.
