THE Philippine National Police Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) will be joining the 39th Philippines-United States ‘Balikatan’ 2024 military exercises starting April 22, the Journal Group learned yesterday.

According to PNP-SAF director Major General Bernard M. Banac, they will be sending 156 SAF policemen to the military activity between the Philippines and the US.

“As the rapid deployment force of the PNP under the leadership of PNP chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil, the SAF seeks to strengthen interoperability, collaboration and coordination with friends, partners and allies,” Banac said.

He added that the annual event would provide SAF an opportunity to observe, learn and gain experience on all-domain or ‘sea, air and land,’ command control and cybersecurity.

Last April 11, the PNP-SAF opened its training session on rapid deployment by air or the Basic Airborne Course Class 57-2024 at Fort Sto. Domingo in Sta. Rosa City Laguna.

The basic airborne and parachute packing course is aimed at beefing-up the elite unit’s corps of skydiving commandos, Banac said.

The PNP-SAF opened the course in recognition of the important role to be played by its troopers amid a shift in geopolitical dynamics and the brewing tension in the West Philippine Sea due to aggressive moves by the Chinese Coast Guard.

In opening the course, the PNP-SAF director emphasized the critical role of airborne operations in navigating an ever-evolving security landscape.

Being the PNP’s main tactical unit, Banac stressed that the ability to rapidly deploy forces into hostile environments is necessary.

The general underscored that the course is an evidence of SAF’s unwavering commitment to excellence and preparedness in the face of adversity.

“As tensions escalate and uncertainties emerge, the SAF remains steadfast in its mission to protect and serve the Filipino people with valor and distinction,” he said.

For the first time since the PH-US Balikatan exercises started in 1991, the two countries will hold their most ambitious joint military exercise yet amid escalating tension in the West Philippine Sea brought about by continued aggressive moves from China Coast Guard.

More than 16,000 Filipino and American soldiers will be involved in the joint exercises focused on countering maritime and air attacks.