A demonstration of force that Beijing does not ignore
The United States and the Philippines just launched one of their largest joint military exercises. It is called Balikatan and brings together more than 17,000 troops for almost three weeks in strategic points of the Philippine archipelago.
The novelty this year is clear: it is no longer just a bilateral issue. For the first time, Japan and Canada participate as full members. The maneuvers include combat drills, live fire and operations in sensitive areas.
Which is it? Those near the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Regions where any movement is read as a geopolitical message.
“China has criticized the deployment, considering that it seeks to contain its influence in the region.”
The reaction from Beijing was predictable. They see these movements as part of a strategy to stop its expansion. From Washington and Manila, however, they insist on the usual script.
They say it’s not against anyone in particular. Which is about improving the response to threats or natural disasters. General Romeo Brawner talks about improving “resilience and joint readiness.”
But between the lines, the message is another. It is a reaffirmation of alliances in a tense moment. Lt. Gen. Christian Wortman made it clear: America’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific “remains steadfast.”
Washington has repeatedly repeated that it will defend the Philippines if it is attacked, thanks to its mutual defense treaty. In this part of the world, promises are measured by the size of aircraft carriers and the frequency of exercises.
More soldiers, more countries involved, closer to disputed waters. The equation is simple: the greater the demonstration, the greater the signal sent. And this time, the sign is hard to ignore.
