The Philippines and the United States began the largest iteration of annual Balikatan military drills yet, running through May 8 with more than 17,000 troops, including around 10,000 U.S. personnel, and expanded participation from allies including Japan — which is participating in live-fire drills for the first time — Australia, Canada, France and New Zealand, AP reported on April 20. At the same time, China warned the exercises "create division and confrontation in the region" and sent a naval task group to conduct parallel drills in the western Pacific.

This year's drills showcase Manila's expanding set of defense partners following the signing of multiple visiting forces agreements over the past year. Tensions with China persist in both the disputed South China Sea and the waters between the northern Philippines and Taiwan. Meanwhile, Washington is demonstrating that alliance commitments in the region remain intact even while it is heavily engaged in the Middle East.