The Philippine Air Force (PAF) and the United States Pacific Air Force (PACAF) commenced joint air patrol exercises over the South China Sea on February 4, 2025, according to PAF spokesperson Colonel Maria Consuelo Castillo.
The one-day exercise is being conducted over the West Philippine Sea, a term used by Manila for waters within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Castillo emphasized that the exercise aims to enhance interoperability between the two air forces, improve air domain awareness, and support agile combat employment strategies aligned with shared bilateral objectives.
“Today, February 4, 2025, the PAF and PACAF will conduct a bilateral bomber air patrol, air intercept training, and photo exercise over the West Philippine Sea,” Castillo stated during a press briefing.
The exercise features two of the Philippines’ FA-50 fighter aircraft and two U.S. B1-B bombers. The participating aircraft assembled on the west coast of the Philippines before commencing the drills, which are scheduled to conclude in the afternoon. Their flight path will include parts of Bajo de Masinloc (Scarborough Shoal), a known flashpoint in the ongoing territorial disputes in the region.
Despite recent tensions with Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea, Castillo clarified that this exercise is part of routine bilateral training and not directly related to any recent confrontations.
“This cooperative effort falls under the framework of the Mutual Defense Board – Security Engagement Board activities between the Philippines and the United States, specifically addressing bilateral air activities and joint air patrols,” Castillo added.