Puerto Princesa City – The 3rd Marine Brigade took part in the opening of Balikatan Exercise 40-2025, the 40th annual joint training between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the United States Armed Forces through the United States Indo-Pacific Command (US-INDOPACOM) which runs from 21 April to 09 May 2025, in various locations, mainly Northern Luzon, Central Luzon, and Palawan.

Balikatan 40-25 aims to strengthen coordination and cooperation between the Philippines and the US underscoring their strong alliance which has been a cornerstone of stability in the Indo-Pacific region for many years.

The 3rd Marine Brigade, under the Western Command will execute key events including Counter Landing Live Fire Exercise and Maritime Key Terrain Security Operations in Rizal and Balabac, Palawan.

Around 1200 personnel are participating in Palawan, including troops from three Marine Battalion Landing Teams, the US military, Australian Defence Force (ADF), Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces (JGSDF) and UK Royal Marines Commandos.

“Balikatan,” meaning “shoulder to shoulder,” reflects the strong alliance between the Philippines and the US, supporting AFP’s Vision 2028 to become a world-class and proud military force.