A policy think tank has expressed support for the upcoming Balikatan exercises, urging the Philippines to strengthen military cooperation with allies and maintain a firm defense posture in the West Philippine Sea amid ongoing tensions with China.
The Stratbase Institute said the 2026 Balikatan drills, scheduled from April 20 to May 8, reflect the country’s commitment to upholding international law and protecting its sovereign rights.
Stratbase president Victor Andres “Dindo” Manhit said the exercises “represent the correct path forward” in addressing security challenges in the disputed waters.
“It affirms that we are not isolated, and that our national security is anchored in strong alliances with nations that uphold international law and share our commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Manhit said.
More than 17,000 troops from the Philippines and partner countries—including the United States, Australia, Japan, Canada, France, and New Zealand—are expected to participate in this year’s drills, the largest so far.
The institute underscored the significance of the exercises as China continues its actions in the West Philippine Sea despite the 2016 arbitral ruling that invalidated its sweeping claims.
“That victory is final and non-negotiable,” Manhit said, referring to the ruling.
“To dilute it—whether through silence, inaction… is to erode the legal and moral clarity it firmly established,” he added.
Manhit also said the Philippines is in a “state of active defense,” stressing that government policies should reflect the current security environment.
He added that public trust in engagements with China remains low, warning against compromising sovereign rights for uncertain commitments.
