Philippine, Australian troops begin joint drills in Samar

The Philippine Army and Australian Army have begun a nearly monthlong joint military exercise in Samar aimed at strengthening combat readiness, coordination and interoperability between the two forces.

The Philippines-Australia Army-to-Army Exercise (PAAAE) “Kasangga” 2026-02 officially opened on 19 October at the 8th Division Training School in Barangay Fatima, Hinabangan, Samar, the Philippine Army announced Wednesday.

A total of 234 soldiers are participating, including 144 personnel from the Philippine Army's 8th Infantry Division and 90 Australian Army troops.

The Filipino participants come from the 8th Division Training School, 63rd Infantry Battalion, 543rd Engineer Construction Battalion, 7th Cavalry Company and 803rd Community Defense Center.

The second iteration of Kasangga this year focuses on strengthening operational coordination, tactical expertise and the exchange of military knowledge and best practices.

Training covers command and control, intelligence, maneuver, fire support, sustainment, force protection and other essential warfighting functions.

The exercises are designed to improve the ability of Philippine and Australian forces to operate together during combined military missions.

The first iteration of Kasangga 2026 was held in the Bicol Region within the operational area of the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division.

The Philippine Army said regular joint training activities with Australia strengthen interoperability, improve mission effectiveness and enhance the readiness of both forces for future operations.