The Philippine Senate on December 16 ratified a key defence pact with Japan, which allows them to deploy troops on each other's territory, and strengthen joint combat drills.

Indonesia and Australia agreed on a treaty-level defence cooperation pact which allows their militaries to operate in each other's territories, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on August 20.

The Philippines and Singapore have signed a defence pact that will allow their militaries to broaden their engagement, including holding joint exercises to prepare for humanitarian emergencies and other contingencies.

A five-day exercise simulating a hostage rescue and plane seizure held by Philippines and US forces to refocus their military alliance towards counter-terrorism finished on September 26.