LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte (PIA) - In a display of military cooperation and partnership, the Philippine and United States Marines held a joint static display and demonstration of their capabilities at the Headquarters of 4th Marine Brigade at Camp Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte on April 22.

The event showcased the advanced equipment and tactics of the two forces.

The demonstration included various military assets, such as armored vehicles, artillery pieces, and aircraft.

The joint exercise aimed to enhance the interoperability and readiness of both forces in responding to various circumstances in the region.

Moreover, the people are given an opportunity to learn and witness the readiness and commitment of the Marine forces in promoting regional security and stability.

“Ang mission namin is to be with the people, talk with the people, know them and at the same time to protect them kasi they are the very same people na sumumpa kami na proprotektahan. We cannot protect them if they are against what we are doing,” the 4th Marine Brigade said.

The joint exercises was attended by Laoag City Mayor Michael Marcos Keon, high-ranking military officials, local government officials of Burgos, tourists, and locals.

The joint static display and demonstration highlighted the engineering capabilities of the Philippine and US Marines in protecting their entities while strengthening their partnership and preparedness.

The event marks another milestone in the longstanding partnership between the Philippine and US Marines, which has been characterized by joint training exercises and exchanges of expertise and equipment.

With the H4MDBE joint exercise, both forces have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their defense cooperation while ensuring security in the communities.

Although there is no threat in the province of Ilocos Norte, a unilateral exercises was conducted by the Marine forces by recalibrating their skills and knowledge in combat fighting and checking their equipment while ensuring a “No Live Fire Exercises” for the safety of the people. (JCR/MJTAB/IJUG-Intern PIA Ilocos Norte)