AFP conducts maritime drills in West Philippine Sea despite nearby Chinese warships

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) conducted maritime drills on November 6 at Kota Island, undeterred by the presence of Chinese warships nearby. This marked the first time the AFP held exercises in this specific area. During the drills, Navy personnel executed a "mechanized assault" while the Philippine Air Force provided logistical support. AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. stated that the Chinese vessels did not interfere and appeared to be observing the exercises. Brawner noted that the drills were part of the annual Joint Exercise Dagat-Langit-Lupa and emphasized the AFP's capability to defend its territory. The presence of Chinese ships added realism to the training, according to Brawner.