Phl, US armies wrap up joint drills in Cagayan Valley

The Philippine Army (PA) has concluded a series of joint training exercises with its counterpart from the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), wrapping up this year’s Salaknib Exercise in Cagayan Valley on Thursday.

Held from 16 to 19 June, the bilateral training aimed to strengthen territorial defense and enhance the interoperability of Filipino and American troops through coordinated land, air, and sea maneuvers.

Over 100 mobility assets from both forces participated in a strategic ground convoy that traveled from Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija to key locations including the Bagabag Airstrip in Nueva Vizcaya, the Isabela State University Oval in Echague, and Camp Melchor Dela Cruz in Gamu, Isabela.

Specialized drills also took place, including Military Free Fall exercises at the Bagabag Airstrip and Fast Rope Insertion and Extraction System (FRIES) operations in Isabela—simulating rapid troop deployment in austere and challenging terrains.

Both armies also showcased combined logistical capabilities by deploying tank assets to Port Irene in Cagayan using U.S. Navy Landing Craft Units.

"The drills between Filipino and American ground forces align with the Philippine Army’s thrust to adopt mobile, agile, and sustainable forces that can rapidly respond to various missions and contingencies," Philippine Army spokesperson Col. Louie Dema-ala said.

The Salaknib Exercise — named after the Ilocano word for “shield” — is held annually to enhance cooperation, readiness, and defense posture between the two allied ground forces.