Chinese vessels observe Philippine maritime drills with allies
Colonel Dennis Hernandez, a spokesman for the annual joint and combined Balikatan exercises, said the Chinese kept a safer distance, observing the activities of the 12-day multinational maritime event
Joe M. Reyes | May 1, 2026
MANILA — Several Chinese vessels shadowed the 11 warships from the Philippines and its allies as they were hunting “hostile” submarines during training exercises in the West Philippine Sea, a military official told journalists.
Colonel Dennis Hernandez, a spokesman for the annual joint and combined Balikatan exercises, said the Chinese kept a safer distance, observing the activities of the 12-day multinational maritime event.
“They shadowed but they’re not in close proximity with the ships conducting the maritime event,” Hernandez said referring to several Chinese vessels near Bajo de Masinloc.
“But, based on our initial information is there was shadowing.They’re just there, maybe observing the conduct of the activity (MME).”
Hernandez said the Chinese ships did not conduct any dangerous maneuver, stressing that they stayed far from the multinational vessels involved in the MME. (Also read: China blocks Bajo de Masinloc with floating barriers)
The Philippines deployed three ships, including two guided missile frigates BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Antonio Luna, and a Coast Guard cutter.
On the other hand, Japan deployed three ships — two destroyers and a landing ship tank – while US and Canada sent out two ships each, including a US logistics vessel, a US Coast Guard Patrol Boat, a Canadian frigate and another vessel while Australia sent a frigate
Hernandez said the 11 participating vessels had completed anti-submarine, deck landing and other training activities. (Also read: Philippines, allies practice how to repulse amphibious assault landing)
The MME and the other exercises being conducted under Balikatan are not aimed at China or other countries, Hernandez said.
“It is not directed at any other countries,” said Hernandez, adding the training events are being conducted to enhance the operability of the countries.
“These maritime activities are being conducted in accordance with the international rules-based order.”
For its part, the Balikatan-Combined Information Bureau (CJIB) said the MME “underscores the shared commitment of the Philippines with its ally and partners to strengthen cooperation and regional stability.”
“Building on this momentum, the AFP continues to advance its capability to safeguard national sovereignty and maritime interests while upholding a rules-based international order,” it added.
The Balikatan exercise opened last April 20 and will end on May 8. This year’s exercise is the largest so far, involving more than 17,000 troops.