THE closing ceremony of the Philippines-Australia Army-to-Army Exercise (PAAAE) “KASANGGA: 2025-02” in Camp Peralta in Jamindan, Capiz. (3rd ID photo)
ILOILO CITY – The joint military training and exercises between the 3rd Infantry Division (ID) of the Philippine Army and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in Capiz province ended on Friday.
Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete, Army commanding general, led the closing ceremony of the Philippines-Australia Army-to-Army Exercise (PAAAE) “KASANGGA: 2025-02” in Camp Peralta in Jamindan town.
The month-long military training hosted by the 3rd ID under Major Gen. Michael Samson strengthened interoperability, enhanced tactical capabilities, and fostered camaraderie between the two allied armies.
Training included utilizing drones, boats, and various defense weapons, medical response, mission planning, and unified command operations.
“The Australian soldiers will return home with a far greater appreciation of the impressive capabilities of the Philippine Army. I am confident they will all go back as better jungle fighters,” said Lt. Col. Noel Young, Australian Assistant Defence Attaché to the Philippines.
“More importantly, I believe the entire Australian contingent will return as ambassadors of the Philippine Army, eager for future engagements. We came as partners, we leaving as friends,” added Young.
Also present during the closing ceremony was Brig. Gen. Michael Logico, commander of the Training and Doctrine Command.