CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City, Philippines – The Armed Forces of the Philippines hosted the closing ceremony of Exercise Balikatan 2026, May 8, marking the successful completion of the largest annual military exercise between the Philippines and the United States.
The ceremony was a celebration of a successful exercise and a reminder of the shared values that underpin it. This 41st iteration of the exercise proved to be the most expansive Balikatan to date. Five ally and partner nations joined the Philippines and United States – Australia, Japan, Canada, France, and New Zealand – bolstering the shared knowledge, capabilities, and momentum of the exercise from start to finish.
“Balikatan 2026 marked a strategic evolution from a bilateral exercise to a full-scale, multinational mission rehearsal for the defense of the Philippines,” said U.S. Navy Adm. Samuel J. Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. “That growth reflects the security environment. It reflects the sovereign choices of free nations.”
The 19-day exercise highlighted the combat credibility, crisis readiness, and spirit of cooperation forged over decades of U.S.-Philippines bilateral training and reinforced by a growing coalition of like-minded partners and allies.
Combat credibility starts with detailed planning and strategic logistics. Long before the opening ceremony, service members dedicated months to the tactical plans, life support considerations, and safety precautions, paving the way for operations to begin. In March, AFP and U.S. forces, alongside civilian entities, conducted a Maritime Prepositioning Force offload to prepare equipment and sustainment for the exercise, strategically moving items from Mindanao through Subic Bay and onto training areas.
With combat power in position, the combined and joint force conducted complex all-domain live-fire events, enhancing air and missile defense, counter-landing, and maritime security and strike capabilities. These events integrated advanced capabilities into realistic scenarios across the archipelago, demonstrating how combat power becomes credible when applied by a capable, multinational force.
Combat credibility was also on display at sea – the Philippines, United States, Australia, Japan, and Canada conducted a Multilateral Maritime Event off the western coast of Luzon, featuring training inlive-fire gunnery, anti-submarine warfare, and replenishment at sea as well as deck landing qualifications.
“Balikatan was never simply about conducting activities,” said Philippine Army Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr., chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. “It was about strengthening the ability to respond together in real, complex conditions. And that matters because in today’s security environment, readiness cannot be improvised.”
Crisis readiness was built as partner forces conducted advanced aeromedical, combat search-and-rescue, and mass casualty training. And readiness was called upon the first day of the exercise when AFP and U.S. forcesresponded to a vehicular accident, extracting multiple injured civilians from a ravine while aviation units coordinated rapid helicopter medical evacuations. Their coordinated response highlights that this year’s events are a product of decades of military cooperation.
Throughout the exercise, the spirit of cooperation extended directly into local communities. At five sites across the archipelago – from Mindanao to Palawan to Northern Luzon – service members worked alongside local leaders, barangay rural healthworkersand community partners to support medical and dental exams, health education, classroom technology, infrastructureprojectsand community engagements tailored to local priorities; lasting impacts of health engagements and engineering projects will provide value to the lives of more than 60,000 Filipinos.
The exercise’s success in enhancing combat credibility, crisis readiness, and the spirit of cooperation represents a shared commitment to regional peace and stability that is the foundation of the 1951 U.S.-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty, stronger than ever 75 years after signing.
“These anniversaries remind us that our alliance is not merely a matter of treaty obligations. It is a living partnership, designed and strengthened across generations, and grounded in shared values, mutual respect, and common purpose,” said Y. Robert Ewing, chargé d’affaires, a.i., at the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines. “Exercise Balikatan serves as a powerful testament to our alliance in action. It demonstrates our collective commitment to prepare together, alongside other like-minded nations, to deter common threats and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, is making Mother’s Day extra special this year as it brings back its signature Piso sale, giving every Juan more opportunities to thank and show their love to their moms and mother figures through meaningful travel experiences.

From May 8 to 15, 2026, travelers may book their flights to all CEB domestic and international destinations on sale for as low as PHP 1 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period will be from October 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027, giving families the perfect opportunity to plan meaningful trips and book ahead for the peak travel season.

CEB passengers looking to gift their moms with a well-deserved escape can explore Tacloban’s cultural and historical landmarks, enjoy the natural wonders and island experiences of Puerto Princesa, go on a food trip in Bacolod, seek the outdoor adventures of Cagayan De Oro, or unwind by the white sand beaches of Boracay.

With the airline’s wide domestic network, travelers can conveniently fly through its major hubs in Cebu, Davao, and Iloilo. These gateways provide passengers with more seamless options to explore and discover new experiences across the Philippines.

CEB also offers flights to international destinations such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, perfect for those who want to treat their moms to an overseas vacation. From vibrant city adventures to culinary discoveries and shopping experiences, these destinations offer something special that moms will surely enjoy.

CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com and stay tuned for more exciting partnerships and offers designed to make every journey even more rewarding.

As part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippines diplomatic ties and the Freedom 250 commemoration of the 250thanniversary of U.S. independence, the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines, through its Regional English Language Office, launched a specialized professional development program to help college instructors teach technical subjects more effectively in English.  This initiative highlights American excellence in teaching innovation, bringing world-class instructional standards to Philippine classrooms.

The two-day workshop, held in Baguio City on April 28 and 29 and facilitated by Saint Louis University, trained 50 college instructors specializing in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and social sciences.  Led by American English Language Fellows, the workshop used experiential learning methods—including mini laboratories and solving complex math problems in English—to help participants experience firsthand the challenges students face when learning technical subjects in English.

“By empowering Filipino faculty with tools to strengthen their English instruction, we are also helping them shape the next generation of subject matter experts who can effectively communicate complex ideas in English.  This collaboration bridges a future where the United States and the Philippines can work more easily toward shared goals, making both our nations safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” said U.S. Embassy Regional English Language Officer Jeff McIlvenna.  

“This training has benefited the whole region through these professors and instructors to learn more ways of using English as a power and a tool in facilitating content courses.  From here, we will always share and pay it forward,” said Dr. Stephanie Busbus, Director of Global Relations at Saint Louis University.

Participants also relied on the American English Toolkit—a collection of resources provided by the U.S. Department of State in collaboration with American educators and professionals.  The Toolkit includes interactive games, songs, recorded virtual workshops, and other teaching tools that highlight American values, culture, history, and the arts, offering instructors valuable materials to incorporate into their classrooms.

The Regional English Language Office (RELO) in Manila advances U.S. interests in the Philippines and the region by promoting English language teaching and learning programs that strengthen people-to-people ties between the United States and the Philippines.  Through teacher training, curriculum development, and educational resources, RELO empowers educators and institutions to enhance English language instruction, creating opportunities for Filipinos to engage with American culture, values, and innovation.

To reduce congestion to the power grid and improve power availability to the communities it serves, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime) has implemented the use of rooftop solar power systems across its properties and nationwide network of SM Supermalls.

Since its pioneering installation of solar panels over SM North EDSA in 2014, clean solar energy generated through SM is now large enough to power a city as large as Mabalacat, Pampanga or Mandaue, Cebu.

“The use of solar power enables SM Supermalls to elevate the service we provide to our customers by embedding sustainability into our daily operations,” said SM Supermalls President Steven Tan. “When Filipinos visit their most-loved SM malls, they are entering a space that actively helps preserve the environment through responsible resource management, reducing carbon emissions while ensuring more resources remain available for our surrounding communities.”

Maximizing space makes room for energy efficiency

SM currently utilizes 65 hectares of space for its rooftop solar panels—which is almost as big as the entire SM Mall of Asia complex, but has also applied innovative ways to maximize mall space for energy efficiency.

Across the SM Mall of Asia’s MOA Sky, solar panels have been seamlessly integrated into the walkway that wraps around the property—doubling as overhead covering for mallgoers strolling and enjoying leisurely walks.

By utilizing this space, SM generates enough power to run 1,000 escalators a day or power 1,800 homes for a month.

Another innovative application of means to harness solar power can be found in SM City Bicutan’s solar-powered parasols decorating its Sky Garden. The understated use of the solar-powered parasols not only add to the Sky Garden’s ambience but also provides functional use as nighttime lighting for customers of surrounding establishments.

The parasols efficiently provide five hours of nighttime lighting for only three hours of daytime charge, effectively reducing the need to use electricity throughout the evening until the mall’s closing time.

“Our approach to building malls that satisfy our customers and stakeholders go beyond giving them what is expected. We believe it is up to us to be proactive in enriching the mall-going experiences of Filipinos by investing in seamless, sustainable solutions that allow us to preserve natural resources for many years to come,” said Tan.

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About SM Green Movement:

SM Prime Holdings, Inc. (SM Prime) is one of the largest integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, committed to creating sustainable, innovative, and inclusive spaces for Filipinos. Guided by its vision of building a better future, SM Prime develops malls, residences, offices, hotels, and leisure properties that support the growth of communities across the Philippines.

Through the SM Green Movement, SM Prime champions sustainability by focusing on waste management, water stewardship, and energy efficiency for lasting impact. The movement empowers individuals, families, and communities to take part in simple acts that create shared prosperity for generations to come.

In honor of the 124th Labor day, SM City Olongapo Central, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) hosted a Labor Day Job Fair, aimed at providing immediate employment opportunities to residents of Olongapo, Zambales and nearby provinces. More than 2000 job vacancies from different industries were hiring, bringing together 36 employers with 20 hired on the spot—a powerful reflection of how accessible, community-based platforms can deliver real employment outcomes.

Across multiple SM malls, thousands of Filipinos walked in carrying resumes—and walked out with something more: real opportunities, renewed confidence, and for many, a fresh start. The SM Job Fair once again served as a platform for employment, connecting jobseekers, employers, and government partners in one convenient, community-centered space.

SM Supermalls is not just about bringing people together—it’s about helping them move forward.

Manila—As part of the celebration of the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties and the Freedom 250 commemoration of the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, the United States is organizing a series of Galing USA promotions in April and May to showcase the exceptional quality, versatility, and local application of U.S. food products and expand market access for American agribusiness in the Philippines.

In partnership with the Foreign Agricultural Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), ten of the Philippines’ finest restaurants celebrate American Restaurant Month by offering special dishes that demonstrate how America’s finest beef, poultry, and specialty ingredients inspire culinary excellence across cooking styles and traditions.  From April 13 to May 13, the following restaurants and their branches across 32 locations will offer special menu items ranging from USDA ribeye steaks and U.S. duck confit to selections of American cheeses:

• 25 Seeds
• Bizu Patisserie and Café
• Café Fleur
• Cyma
• Dickey’s Barbeque Pit
• Farmer’s Table
• Mamou
• One World Deli
• Souv
• The Split

Leading a U.S. Agribusiness Trade Mission to the Philippines, Deputy Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Michelle Bekkering said, “This initiative highlights the strong partnership between our nations and showcases the exceptional quality of U.S. products featured on these menus.  U.S. products are celebrated for their unparalleled quality and standards, which is why so many exceptional restaurants choose to incorporate U.S. ingredients into their culinary creations.”

USDA is also partnering with The Marketplace and Metro Supermarket to promote a wide range of American food and beverage products, including U.S. meat and poultry, cheese, and blueberries.  Shoppers can taste “Authentic American Flavors” at The Marketplace Parqal Mall location in Parañaque City and experience the “Great American Food Fest” at Metro Supermarket’s Market! Market! location in Taguig City from April 13 to 26.

“American farmers and ranchers are proud to supply high-quality and delicious products to consumers here in the Philippines,” said Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering.  “We greatly value our strong partnership with Filipino retailers like The Marketplace and Market! Market!, who help bring the best of American agriculture and flavors to Filipino households.”

On April 14, Deputy Under Secretary Bekkering led the awarding of Key Partners in U.S. Agricultural Excellence and Prosperity to eight Filipino organizations for their valuable contributions to strengthening bilateral trade and food security by making high-quality U.S. food and agricultural products available to Filipino consumers.  “The awardees constitute nearly 200 years of combined U.S.-Philippines partnership.  We are truly honored by your continued trust in U.S. agriculture, and grateful for the role each of you plays in strengthening our bilateral relationship,” she noted.

The awardees are:

• Century Pacific Food, Inc.
• Dane International Commodities, Inc.
• Jetti Petroleum, Inc.
• Meat Importers and Traders Association
• Philippine Association of Feed Millers, Inc.
• Philippine Association of Flour Millers, Inc.
• Philippine Association of Meat Processors, Inc.
• Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc.

U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires, a.i., Y. Robert Ewing added, “This recognition reflects the broader strength of the U.S.-Philippine trade relationship as partners in prosperity.  It is an auspicious occasion to recognize this inaugural class of honorees as we celebrate the 80th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine diplomatic ties this year.”

The Philippines is the tenth largest market for U.S. agricultural and food products, averaging $3.4 billion in annual exports over the past five years.

Galing USA is an initiative by USDA through the U.S. Embassy in the Philippines’ Foreign Agricultural Service, aimed at promoting high-quality U.S. food and beverage products in the Philippine market.

For more updates on American Restaurant Month and U.S. food promotions, follow Galing USA on Facebook.

and Partnerships in the Philippines

Passengers may book flights to all CEB domestic destinations for as low as PHP 599 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges, until April 30. The travel period is from May 1 to June 30, 2026, allowing travelers to explore destinations that match what they truly seek at any point in time.

With stronger connectivity through its key hubs in Manila, Clark, Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao, CEB enables smoother journeys across the country, allowing travelers to travel with a purpose—to rest, explore, reconnect, and discover.

CEB’s key hubs in Cebu, Iloilo, and Davao serve as convenient gateways to a wide range of destinations, each offering its own unique rhythm and experience. From Cebu’s vibrant mix of history and island adventures to Iloilo’s heritage and culinary gems, and Davao’s nature-filled escapes and fresh local flavors, these hubs make it easier for travelers to explore trips that align with what truly moves them.

Beyond these, the airline also flies to destinations such as Tacloban, where travelers can visit historical landmarks and learn more about culture, and Palawan, which is home to breathtaking natural wonders, ideal for those seeking stillness, inspiration, or simply a deeper connection with nature.

For those looking for more meaningful travels, CEB connects its passengers to experiences with different kinds of purposes. From surfing breaks in Siargao for solo travelers, snorkeling trips in Dumaguete with your friends, or cycling through Clark with the family, every destination opens a different way to experience the Philippines this season.

 At a time when many are becoming more mindful of how they spend, CEB continues to make travel more attainable, proving that meaningful breaks don’t have to be far or expensive. Exploring the Philippines is not just about where you go, but how it makes you feel, more present, more energized, and more connected.

CEB operates in 35 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

Book your flights now at www.cebupacificair.com and stay tuned for more exciting partnerships and offers designed to make every journey even more rewarding.

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, has been recognized as Best Employer Brand at the 2026 LinkedIn Talent Awards—marking its third consecutive win in the category for organizations with 5,000 to 10,000 employees.

The annual awards recognize organizations that excel in attracting, engaging, and developing talent, highlighting those that build meaningful and lasting connections with their workforce.

This recognition reflects CEB’s continued focus on building a strong employer brand through authentic storytelling, consistent engagement, and a clear articulation of its culture and values.

“As we mark 30 years of Cebu Pacific, we’re clear on one thing: an employer brand isn’t built through campaigns—it’s built through everyday experiences. When people are proud to work here and proud to tell others why, that’s when you know you’re getting it right,” said Felix Lopez, CEB Chief Human Resources Officer. “At Cebu Pacific, our people don’t just work here—they build communities here. That sense of belonging is something you can’t manufacture, and we choose to nurture it every day.”

At the core of this approach is CEB University, the airline’s in-house learning
ecosystem. With eight specialized schools, it enables employees to continuously build skills, deepen expertise, and pursue defined career pathways across different functions and leadership levels.

Another key part of its culture is the presence of 16 Juan CEB Communities
(JCC)—self-organized, employee-led groups centered on shared interests and
advocacies. These communities foster connection, inclusion, and purpose across the organization. One example is EmpowHER, which champions the growth and
advancement of women through mentorship, collaboration, and leadership
opportunities.

CEB is also deepening its contribution to nation-building through its Juan Flight Closer to Home program, launched in May 2025. The initiative aims to encourage overseas Filipino aviation professionals to return home and continue their careers in the Philippines, bringing back global expertise while reconnecting with family and community. By opening pathways for Filipino talent abroad, the airline is helping strengthen the local aviation industry.

CEB operates flights to 35 domestic and 26 international destinations across Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, and continues to invest in its people as a cornerstone of its long-term strategy.