Philippine and Australian Army troops intensified joint combat training under the ongoing Philippines-Australia Army-to-Army Exercise “Kasangga” 2026-1 in Camarines Sur.
The drills focused on strengthening interoperability across key warfighting functions as both armies trained in demolitions, armor operations, marksmanship, jungle warfare, communications and combat casualty care.
Participating troops conducted demolitions range training to improve the safe handling, placement and detonation of explosive charges used in breaching and obstacle-clearing operations.
Separate exercises were also held at the Magtuto Firing Range in Barangay Carolina, Naga City, where troops conducted armor operations training and advanced marksmanship drills.
Other training activities included jungle operations practical exercises, map theory sessions, command and control communications exercises using Blue Force Tracking systems, mortar gunnery, weapons training, force training unit activities and tactical combat casualty care.
The Army said the exercise is designed to test and enhance the skills of participating troops while allowing both sides to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures.
“Kasangga,” which means ally or partner in Filipino, is a regular bilateral training exercise between the Philippine Army and the Australian Army.
The activity also supports the Philippine Army’s shift toward external security operations by improving readiness, interoperability and cooperation with partner forces.