Marines defend Calayan, Batan Islands in simulated attack

The Philippine Marine Corps, through the Marine Battalion Landing Team-10, conducted Exercise "Honasan" on Thursday to safeguard Batan Island in Batanes and Calayan Island in Cagayan from potential external threats.

The objective of the exercise was to defend the country’s territory from foreign aggressors and maintain territorial integrity through counter-landing operations and maritime security patrols.

During the exercise, the Marines employed precision patrols and vigilant surveillance to secure the coastal perimeters and ensure the safety of the shores.

Reservists also participated in the exercise.

Batanes, the Philippines' smallest province located less than 200 kilometers from Taiwan, holds strategic significance in the event of a conflict between China and Taiwan, which the mainland views as a renegade province to be reunified, by force if necessary.