PH, US Forces Hold Amphibious Raid Exercise in Palawan

18 April 2023

The Philippines and US forces hold amphibious raid exercises at the at the beachhead of Barangay Samariñana in Brooke’s Point, Palawan on April 14, 2023. This year's "Balikatan" started April 11 and is scheduled to end on April 28 (photos : Naval Forces West)

MANILA – Naval Forces West (NFW) has announced that joint Philippines and US forces on April 14 have successfully conducted the amphibious raid exercise of this year's "Balikatan" in Palawan.

In a statement Saturday, NFW chief Commodore Alan M. Javier said the exercise was done at the beachhead of Barangay Samariñana in Brooke’s Point, Palawan.

"Following the arrival of the surface assets in Palawan (on April 14) an amphibious raid exercise was performed at the beachhead of Barangay Samariñana, Brooke’s Point, Palawan," he added.

This Fleet-Marine capability was showcased by different units, namely: BRP Jose Rizal (FF-150), BRP Tarlac (LD-601), amphibious assault vehicles, marine amphibious ready unit and marine Reservists.

The US forces, meanwhile, employed their force reconnaissance platoon.

"Amphibious raids are usually performed against the enemy. It is accomplished by employing a special force into an area that is controlled by enemy forces. Amphibious raids are commonly quick and swift leaving minimal footprints on the ground," Javier said.

The successful conduct of the amphibious raid in the "Balikatan" 38-23 reinforces the Philippine Navy’s commitment in ensuring national sovereignty, security and stability.

This year's "Balikatan" started April 11 and is set to end on April 28.

See full article PNA