PH, Aussie forces to hold counter-terror drills

From the Philippine News Agency (Oct 9, 2023): PH, Aussie forces to hold counter-terror drills (By Priam Nepomuceno and Joyce Ann L. Rocamora)

COUNTER TERRORISM DRILL. Philippine Army special operation forces are seen here preparing for the "Dawn Caracha 2023" bilateral counter-terrorism exercises with the Australian Defense Forces to be held in El Nido, Palawan from Oct. 16 to 27. The bilateral exercises aim to enhance the interoperability of both services. (Photo courtesy of the Western Command)

MANILA – Philippine Army (PA) and Australian Defense Forces (ADF) special operation forces will hold counter-terrorism drills and related exercises from October 16 to 27 at the Western Command (Wescom) area of operations in Palawan.

This bilateral exercise, known as "Dawn Caracha 2023", aims to enhance the interoperability of both services, Wescom said in a Facebook post on Sunday.

"Scheduled from October 16 to October 27 in El Nido, the exercise will primarily focus on conducting counter-terrorism operations and special operations, showcasing the capabilities of the two forces," it added.

Preparations for "Dawn Caracha 2023" began October 7, as Philippine Army special operation forces troops held pre-exercise movements and operational briefings.

The exercise presents an opportunity for both units to showcase their skills, strengthen their partnership, and foster increased collaboration. It also aims to enhance collaboration in tackling complex security challenges on the country's western front.

"Furthermore, 'Dawn Caracha 2023' will also definitely contribute to regional security and foster closer cooperation between the Philippines and Australia," the Wescom added.

‘Combined maritime activities’

Speaking at the Australian Institute of International Affairs prior to the 6th Philippine-Australia Ministerial Meeting in Adelaide on Monday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Enrique Manalo said the two countries have agreed to “reinforce commitment as maritime democracies” to ensure maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight.

“In this context, we are expanding maritime cooperation across policy-planning, practical engagement and capacity-building activities including through combined maritime activities in the South China Sea,” he said.

He added that part of this support for a rules-based order is Australia’s “unequivocal support” for the 2016 Arbitral Award on the South China Sea and its rejection of historic claims that have no basis in international law.

“Its assistance in upgrading the capacities of the Philippine Coast Guard, as pledged by Minister Penny Wong early this year is also ‘part of this’,” he said.

Manalo, meanwhile, pointed out that the Philippines will play its part “not to confront nor provoke, but to honor our commitment to our people for the protection of our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and regional stability”.

“Our friendship, forged in the crucible of war, has evolved to assume a mantle of stewardship of global peace and stability, with our defense of democracy, sovereignty, and the rule of law,” he said.

“Our Strategic Partnership is but a new chapter in the ongoing story of our ties as builders and keepers of peace and prosperity of our peoples and of the region,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1211394