The Philippine and Malaysian armies have opened a 12-day bilateral training exercise in Davao de Oro to strengthen defense cooperation, improve interoperability and sharpen joint operational readiness.
Training Activity (TA) LAND MALPHI 24/2026 formally began on June 1 at the headquarters of the Philippine Army’s 10th Infantry Division in Camp General Manuel T. Yan Sr. in Barangay Tuboran, Mawab, Davao de Oro.
Brig. Gen. Eufracio Joel Malig, assistant division commander of the 10th Infantry Division, led the opening ceremony.
The exercise, which will run until June 12, focuses on interoperability, battle staff planning and the exchange of operational experiences in territorial defense and security operations.
It includes cross-training, tabletop exercises and command post exercises designed to improve combined operational effectiveness and strengthen professional ties between the two armies.
The Malaysian Army delegation also paid a courtesy call on Maj. Gen. Alvin Luzon, commander of the 10th Infantry Division, underscoring the continuing military partnership between the Philippines and Malaysia.
A symbolic donning of caps and armbands was held during the ceremony to mark unity, readiness and cooperation among the participating forces.
Luzon said the exercise reflects the shared commitment of both armies to building capable and adaptive forces.
“TA LAND MALPHI demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening defense cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and building mutual trust among partner armed forces,” he said.
He said such engagements support territorial defense, regional security and long-term stability.
The exercise is expected to further improve coordination between the Philippine and Malaysian armies as both countries work to address common security challenges in the region.