Philippine Defense Monitor (PDM)

PDM is an independent, student-powered open-source intelligence (OSINT) project dedicated to providing timely, factual, and unbiased information on defense and security developments in the Philippines, inspired by the work of @TaiwanMonitor. Directed by @Drethegrater

自衛隊は、参加中の #米比主催多国間共同訓練 #バリカタン２６ において、参加各国と実動訓練に向けた調整を実施し、安全管理を含む準備に万全を期しています。また、様々な事項について意見交換を行い、信頼醸成と相互理解の促進を図りました。 写真は、「スービック港に入港中の『いかづち』及び『しもきた』の雄姿」、「統合防空ミサイル防衛に係る専門家交流」等の状況です。 自衛隊は引き続き、力による一方的な現状変更を許容しない安全保障環境の創出に寄与し、地域の平和と安定及び繁栄に繋げるため、同盟国・同志国との連携を強化するとともに統合・共同運用能力の維持・向上を図っていきます。 #バリカタン #肩を並べて #BK26 #Balikatan #ShoulderToShoulder

PDM Discuss: In relation to an article by @navalnewscom about Type-88. This infographic below visualizes the PH-JP capabilities to deter any potential adversaries trying to pass through three important channels: - Bashi Channel - Balintang Channel; and - Babuyan Channel. 1/2

The introduction of the Type 88 by Japan is another highlight of the growing defense partnership in the Indo-Pacific, providing the Philippine forces with another advantage in understanding the potential capabilities within its expanding international defense relations. 2/2

More reads on: m.facebook.com/story.php?stor…

PDM Report: BGEN. Brian A. Denaro of the USAF met with Vice Com. Pablo E. Rustria Jr. at Villamor Air Base on April 23, 2026, reaffirming cooperation on space domain awareness, capability development, and interoperability in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

WATCH | Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. underscored the Comprehensive Archipelagic Defense Concept as the military’s evolving mission to safeguard Philippine territory across all domains. He stressed that while the focus shifts toward external defense, it does not come at the expense of internal security. The SND noted that since internal threats persist, the AFP remains the primary force legally mandated to address them. To succeed in this dual role, he emphasized the critical need for proper resourcing to ensure the military is equipped for both territorial integrity and domestic stability. Full interview here: youtube.com/live/JkT7a_9qz… #AFPyoucanTRUST #OneAFPOnePhilippines #StrongAFPStrongPhilippines #OurSeasOurRightsOurFuture #MatatagNaSandigan 🫡🇵🇭

Agila Base is slowly becoming a logistics hub for the US military; the movement of US private entities in support of US military mobility and operations within the Indo-Pacific is becoming increasingly clear. US is returning back to the Philippines.

Source: dvidshub.net/image/9631700/…

PMD Report: A U.S. Army combat medic from 5th Combat Engineer Company, 130th Engineer Brigade, 8th Theater Sustainment Command, and Philippine forces conduct medical training during Exercise Balikatan 2026 at Fort Magsaysay, Philippines. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Rayonne Bissant)

The Army goes rolling along at Subic Bay. Staging, warehousing and an armed security services contract that indicates high-end American equipment at the increasingly busy ex-U.S. naval base. My latest with USNI News: news.usni.org/2026/04/22/u-s…

Correcting our post, both systems already appeared in numerous naval events last year. 2/2

PDM REPORT: As per @AaronMatthew_L, the systems in the photo are both MARTAC-made USV. The smaller system is the MARTAC Mantas T12 semi-submersible USVs, while the bigger system is the MARTAC Devil Ray T38 USVs. We thank Mr. Lariosa for giving insight into those systems. 1/2

Posted by Philippine Fleet via Facebook app: facebook.com/10006367007628…

As of now, PDM is trying to identify the specific variation of this USV, as the design bears a strong similarity to MARTAC Devil Ray T18 and Devil Ray T38, both of which are semi-submersible USVs. We’re trying to get some insight from professionals about the model. 1/3

PDM Report: On April 20, the Philippine Fleet showcased its capabilities during the visit of Cdr. Michael Romero PCGA, who boarded BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG6) and observed the MARTAC Devil Ray T18/38 semi-submersible USV, likely the first public appearance of the system. 1/2

On April 20, the Ground Component Command (GCC) participated in the opening ceremony of the multinational joint exercise Balikatan 26, hosted by the United States and the Philippines, along with other seven countries. From the GCC, the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade(ARDB) and units of the Northern Army are participating in the exercise. Through this multilateral exercise, the GCC aims to enhance its capability to conduct joint and multinational operations while strengthening cooperation with allies and like-minded countries. We will continue to provide updates on various events. Please stay tuned. #BK26 #Balikatan #ShoulderToShoulder instagram.com/jgsdf_GCC (20+)Facebook

Source: m.facebook.com/story.php?stor…

On April 20, 2026, Army Vice Com. Maj. Gen. Morados and JGSDF Vice Chief Lt. Gen. Tokunaga Katsuhiko met in Fort Bonifacio following the Balikatan opening ceremony, reaffirming bilateral ties and ongoing cooperation in HADR and external security operations through joint training.

HMAS Toowoomba (FFH-156) sailing alongside the newly commissioned Philippine Navy vessel BRP Rajah Sulayman (PS20) and Philippine Coast Guard ship BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702). The photo also captured two A-29B Super Tucano aircraft from the 15th SW. Photo taken 11 days ago.