SALAKNIB’ PHASE 1 OPENS. Philippine Army (PA) vice commander Maj. Gen. Efren Morados and United States 25th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. James Bartholomees unfurl the official “Salaknib” 2026 Flag during the opening ceremony at Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on Monday (April 6, 2026). The drills underscore the value of forging alliances and the creation of opportunities to learn best practices from one soldier to another. (Photo courtesy of the PA)
MANILA – The Exercise “Salaknib” Phase 1 featuring more than 7,000 Filipino, Japanese, American and Australian soldiers formally opened at Fort Magsaysay, Palayan City, Nueva Ecija on Monday.
In a statement, Philippine Army (PA) vice commander Maj. Gen. Efren Morados underscored the value of forging alliances and the creation of opportunities to learn best practices from one soldier to another.
He said Salaknib is “guided by a clear and strategic purpose to strengthen combined arms operations, deepen multi-domain interoperability, and reinforce a credible and resilient regional security architecture.”
Meanwhile, US 25th Infantry Division commander Maj. Gen. James Bartholomees highlighted the importance of the exercise from their perspective as a long-term ally of the Philippines.
“The United States is proud to call the Philippines our oldest treaty ally in the Pacific, with a bond forged 73 years ago that has strengthened decades of shared sacrifice, trust, and friendship,” he said.
“While our shields are interwoven, potential adversaries clearly see the unity, the capability, and the resolve of our land forces. Together, we will ensure peace, deter aggression, and preserve a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
This year, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the Australian Army will join “Salaknib” as first-time participants and observers, marking it the largest training exercise of like-minded armies to date.
The PA and the United States Army Pacific have been long-term partners for “Salaknib” since 2015, with training anchored on the two countries’ Mutual Defense Treaty.
“Salaknib” Phase 1 is scheduled from April 6 to 17. It will be followed by Exercise “Balikatan” scheduled from April to May and “Salaknib” Phase 2 from May to June.
The multilateral exercises will focus on maritime and territorial defense, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, along with amphibious and combined arms operations.
The PA’s elevation of its exercises signals its readiness and firm resolve to respond to multiple threats.
“Salaknib” which means shield in Ilocano, reflects the historical bond between the Philippines and Americans that dates back to World War II when Filipino and American troops fought side-by-side. (PNA)