China, which claims nearly the entire South China Sea, condemned the joint drill as a disruption to regional peace. Its Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that disputes should be resolved bilaterally and warned against third-party interference. Meanwhile, the Chinese Southern Theatre Command launched what it called “routine” patrols in the area on the same dates as the India-Philippines operation.

A Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson branded the Philippines a “troublemaker” for aligning with foreign militaries in contested waters. In response, Philippine officials stressed their right to operate within internationally recognized maritime boundaries. The 2016 Hague tribunal ruling rejected China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea, though Beijing continues to ignore the decision.

India-Philippines Partnership Grows Amid Indo-Pacific Realignment

Indian warships participating in the exercise included the INS Delhi, INS Shakti, and INS Kiltan, while the Philippines deployed the BRP Miguel Malvar and BRP Jose Rizal. Philippine officials expressed interest in expanding future engagements with the Indian military, viewing the cooperation as a foundation for long-term strategic ties.

President Marcos’s visit to India also covered collaboration in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and regional security. Officials from both countries described the naval drill as a symbol of “solidarity and strength between two vibrant Indo-Pacific democracies.”