MRF-D 25.3 Charges Into Balikatan 25: A Daring Display of Allied Strength and Commitment in Palawan

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The thunderous roar of Ospreys and the synchronized cadence of boots on foreign soil signal more than just movement—they herald the unwavering resolve of allies bound by shared ideals. Following the successful conclusion of Marine Exercise 25 in Mindanao, the Marine Rotational Force – Darwin (MRF-D) 25.3 Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) surged forward to Palawan, setting the stage for one of the most ambitious joint military undertakings in the Indo-Pacific—Exercise Balikatan 25.

This year marks the 40th iteration of Balikatan, the cornerstone of U.S.-Philippine bilateral defense exercises. With a scope broader and bolder than ever, Balikatan 25 aims to sharpen interoperability, bolster regional security, and reflect the growing strength of the U.S.-Philippine-Australia alliance in an increasingly contested maritime domain.

A Force Forward: From Darwin to Palawan

The seamless transition of MRF-D’s Ground Combat Element (GCE) from Mindanao to Palawan wasn’t just a logistical feat—it was a clear signal of resolve. Reinforced by command and logistics elements flown directly from Darwin, Australia, the deployment underscores the MAGTF’s strategic mobility and its readiness to respond at a moment’s notice.

“Our participation in Balikatan alongside our Philippine and Australian counterparts reflects the very essence of why MRF-D exists—to be forward, integrated and ready as a stand-in force,” declared Col. Jason C. Armas, commanding officer of MRF-D 25.3 MAGTF. “Together, we’re sharpening our ability to respond to crises, strengthen regional partnerships and uphold a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

A Trilateral Show of Strength

MRF-D is joined by elite forces from the 5th/7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (5/7 RAR) and the 3rd Marine Brigade (3MBDE) of the Philippine Marine Corps. Their mission? To execute complex, high-risk military scenarios that go far beyond drills—these are rehearsals for real-world defense.

The highlight: a counter-landing live-fire exercise in Rizal, Palawan, where U.S., Australian, and Philippine forces will synchronize air and ground-based fires to repel a simulated amphibious invasion.

The operation will showcase:

Javelin anti-tank missiles, machine guns, and crew-served weapons from U.S. forces.

Anti-tank systems from Australia’s 5/7 RAR.

105mm howitzers and fast-attack air support from the Philippine Armed Forces.

And a stunning High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) live-fire demonstration by the U.S. Army’s 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, proving the power of joint fires coordination.

“This training strengthens not just our interoperability, but our trust in each other as regional security partners,” affirmed LTCOL Adrian Walker, Commander of the Australian Contingent. “We are learning side-by-side in rugged and diverse environments, preparing us to face real-world challenges with confidence and unity.”

Securing the Archipelago: Maritime Key Terrain Operations

In the rugged expanse of Southern Palawan, a second Combined Joint All Domain Operation will unfold. Trilateral forces—inserted by MRF-D MV-22 Ospreys from VMM-363—will secure strategic coastal terrain. As U.S., Australian, and Philippine troops insert by air, Philippine Marine Battalion Landing Teams will conduct amphibious raids to simulate real-time defense of vital maritime chokepoints.

These high-intensity drills reflect the Philippine Archipelagic Coastal Defense Concept—a doctrine born of necessity in a region riddled with maritime disputes and growing tensions. Together, the allied forces are refining their ability to project force, safeguard sovereignty, and maintain open sea lanes.

The Real Meaning of Balikatan

Translated from Filipino, Balikatan means "shoulder-to-shoulder"—a concept that transcends tactics and technology. It embodies the spirit of unity and mutual defense between allies.

“Balikatan is more than just a military exercise—it is a reaffirmation of our enduring alliance and shared commitment to regional stability,” emphasized Brig. Gen. Antonio Mangoroban, commanding general of the 3MBDE. “Through combined operations and shared learning, we enhance our collective readiness to protect our people, our sovereignty and our region.”

A Message Heard Loud and Clear

In a world where flashpoints can ignite at any moment, Balikatan 25 serves as a powerful reminder: the Indo-Pacific is not without defenders. MRF-D 25.3, shoulder-to-shoulder with Philippine and Australian forces, sends an unmistakable message—the allies stand ready.

This is not just an exercise in warfighting. It is a declaration of peace through strength. A warning to those who might test the will of free nations. And a testament to the enduring power of friendship, forged not just in treaties, but in training, trust, and shared trials on the frontlines of freedom.

Frontliners of Democracy: DepEd’s Bold Commitment to Empower and Protect Teachers in the May 2025 Elections

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As the nation braces for another critical exercise in democracy, the Department of Education (DepEd) rises with unwavering resolve, rallying behind the unsung heroes of the electoral process—our teachers.

In what can only be described as a defining moment of unity, service, and accountability, Education Secretary Sonny Angara declared DepEd's firm commitment to uphold the integrity of the May 2025 National and Local Elections. At the heart of this mission: ensuring that every teacher who steps up to serve the country is trained, protected, and honored.

Guardians of the Vote

“Our teachers are holding up the pillars of democracy. In return, we are making sure their service is met with gratitude, preparation, and protection,” Angara declared during a historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing between DepEd, COMELEC, AFP, PNP, and various institutional partners.

This isn’t just about logistics. It’s a promise—a vow to those who often work quietly in classrooms but will soon stand bravely at the forefront of polling precincts across the nation.

Under this MOA, critical measures have been set in motion: legal and medical assistance for all education personnel deputized for election service, a nationwide command structure ready to respond in real-time, and inter-agency coordination at levels never seen before.

Legal Shield and Moral Compass

Recognizing the legal risks that often come with serving in elections, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has stepped up, committing to provide legal aid to teachers who may face complaints while performing their duties. It’s a lifeline in a high-pressure environment where missteps, even unintentional ones, can lead to costly consequences.

DepEd also enlisted Atty. Alberto C. Agra—former Acting Secretary of Justice and Solicitor General—to lead special orientations on election laws. These sessions equip educators not only with legal knowledge but the confidence to uphold the sanctity of their role in the democratic process.

The Command Center: Nerve Hub of the Electoral Frontline

From May 11 to 13, 2025, the DepEd Election Command Center in Makati City will be fully operational—functioning as the central nervous system of the Department’s election efforts. This hub will synchronize operations across Regional and Schools Division Offices, enabling rapid response and clear communication in every corner of the country.

DepEd’s Election Task Force (ETF) will activate across all levels, operating like a well-oiled machine, with each ETF Operations Center working hand in hand with COMELEC, the Public Attorney’s Office, and law enforcement to safeguard the welfare of every teacher on duty.

“This is built like a command center—with clear roles, dedicated personnel, and the authority to act fast when our people need help,” Angara emphasized.

Empowering with Purpose

Beyond safety and support, the Department is also ensuring fair compensation and incentives. ETF members will receive honoraria, overtime pay, or compensatory time off, depending on employment status and existing government rules.

Perhaps more importantly, DepEd is reinforcing its call for political neutrality. The Department has issued strict guidelines to prevent any form of electioneering or partisan activities. This is a clear signal: educators must remain impartial custodians of democracy, and any deviation will not be tolerated.

A Nation’s Trust Rests in Their Hands

As election day nears, the Department is calling on every Filipino to stand beside our teachers—respect them, protect them, and recognize the vital role they play.

“This is more than an election,” Secretary Angara declared. “It is a national act of trust—and our teachers deserve nothing less than our full support.”

In the theater of democracy, where every vote holds power, our teachers are the quiet sentinels ensuring that power is rightfully exercised. As they prepare to serve once again, the nation must rise with them—because defending democracy is not just a duty. It is a shared honor.

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TESDA and SSS Seal Historic Partnership to Secure Social Protection for Thousands of Job Order and COS Workers

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A New Era of Hope and Inclusion Begins for the Unsung Workforce

In a landmark moment brimming with promise and resolve, two pillars of Philippine governance—the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and the Social Security System (SSS)—united in a formal pact that breathes life into a long-overdue social safeguard for some of the nation’s most underprotected laborers.

With the ceremonial stroke of a pen on April 22, 2025, at the TESDA Central Office in Taguig City, SSS President and CEO Robert Joseph Montes De Claro and TESDA Director General, Secretary Jose Francisco “Kiko” B. Benitez brought into reality a groundbreaking partnership under the KaSSSangga Collect Program, a government initiative focused on social protection inclusion.

This historic collaboration promises to deliver social security coverage to approximately 3,800 Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) workers currently serving in TESDA’s central and regional offices—workers who, for the longest time, have been left out of traditional government employment benefits due to the precarious nature of their contracts.

A Leap Toward Equity

For years, JO and COS workers have formed the backbone of public service operations, often bearing the same workloads and responsibilities as regular employees, yet receiving none of the protection that shields most government workers from life’s financial uncertainties. They are the invisible workforce—now finally seen.

With this partnership, TESDA’s JO and COS workers gain access to SSS’s comprehensive suite of benefits: sickness, maternity, disability, unemployment, retirement, death, funeral, and loan programs—crucial safety nets that recognize their dignity and contributions to nation-building.

“This is more than an agreement. It’s an act of justice. It’s our affirmation that every worker counts,” said Secretary Benitez in an emotionally charged address during the signing.

An Open Door for All

Even TESDA’s 4,300 regular employees are not left out of this forward-thinking endeavor. Under the new arrangement, they may enroll as voluntary SSS members, ensuring continuity of contributions they made prior to government service—either from private sector jobs or entrepreneurial ventures.

SSS President De Claro highlighted the program’s inclusivity, stating, “No one should fall through the cracks. This partnership ensures that even the most transient of government workers have access to the enduring protection of SSS.”

Behind the Acronyms: The Heart of KaSSSangga

The KaSSSangga Collect Program is designed to simplify the registration and remittance process for agencies and their JO/COS workers. With the issuance of an Agency Reference Number (ARN) to TESDA, contribution lists can be uploaded, generating Payment Reference Numbers (PRNs)—a digital convenience that streamlines transactions through SSS branches or accredited payment partners, online or over-the-counter.

This digital integration ensures efficiency, transparency, and accountability, fortifying the system’s resilience while empowering workers to easily monitor and maintain their contributions.

A Call to Action for All Government Institutions

The TESDA-SSS pact sets a bold precedent for other government agencies still navigating the grey areas of JO and COS employment. It sends an urgent message across the archipelago: that equity and empathy must guide labor policy, that no worker should be left behind in the shadows of bureaucracy.

This is more than just a policy—it’s a promise. A pledge that the government sees, values, and protects those who labor not for glory, but for purpose.

As the echoes of applause faded at the TESDA Central Office, one thing remained crystal clear: change has begun, and it wears the faces of those 3,800 workers who now walk with greater peace of mind and pride in their service.

For updates and detailed guidelines on the KaSSSangga Collect Program, workers are encouraged to visit sss.gov.ph or inquire through their local SSS and TESDA offices.

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