CITY OF ILAGAN, Isabela (PIA) -- Soldiers from the Philippine Army and the Philippine Air Force have enhanced their knowledge and skills on various security operations following the five-day interoperability exercise held at the 5th Infantry Division, Philippine Army Training School, based in the town of Gamu.

The military camp, where the first military exercise was conducted, is one of the country’s Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites. There were 836 soldiers from different military units who participated in the training.  

The exercise was able to enhance the capabilities of the government troops in responding to the nation’s security threats. 

Philippine Air Force - Tactical Operations Wing, Northern Luzon Commander B/Gen. Rocky J. Binag said the interoperability training tested the agility and quick response capabilities of the soldiers. 

“The transparent acknowledgment of the gaps paired with proactive initiatives to bridge them notably fostered resiliency exhibited throughout the exercises,” Binag said as he emphasized that one of the lessons learned during the activity was the recognition of gaps.

He further stressed that diligent rectification of the gaps will not only aid operational efficiency but will also foster mutual trust and understanding during actual security operations. 

“The journey of improvement is continual. The learning provides a constructive pathway to further enhance our joint capability, ensuring that we stand united and more potent in the face of future challenges,” Binag said. 

The training covered command post exercises, subject matter expert exchanges, and field training exercises. Subject matter exercises also include intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance, air-to-ground operations, close air support, fast rope insertion extraction system, military free fall, hoisting, communication and support system, and sustainment operations. 

The Battle Staff Exercise was focused on problem-action scenarios. Sophisticated and high-end war-fighting type of equipment was utilized during the exercise. (OTB/MGE/PIA Isabela)