Philippines, Vietnam Coast Guards Hold Joint Drills

The Philippine and Vietnam Coast Guards conducted their first joint maritime drills in the West Philippine Sea, focusing on search-and-rescue operations, fire and explosion prevention, and improving interoperability. These exercises, which included the use of water cannons, symbolically contrasted China's aggressive tactics in the disputed South China Sea. The drills were part of a broader effort to enhance maritime cooperation, following a mutual goodwill gesture where Vietnam sent a Coast Guard ship to Manila. Both nations face overlapping claims with China in the South China Sea and have submitted separate claims to the United Nations to assert their maritime rights. The exercises highlighted their commitment to peaceful cooperation and mutual respect despite territorial disputes.