PH, US to hold counterterrorism drills next week

The Philippines and the United States governments will hold counterterrorism drills next week in the Philippines and Hawaii, the Department of National Defense said Friday.

Dubbed as the “Tempest Wind,” the interagency drills will include crisis management, counterterrorism and security operations from both countries, DND public affairs director Arsenio Andolong said.

The drill is designed to provide realistic scenarios on terrorism that will necessitate both high-level engagements and responses on a tactical level, he added.

The drill is aimed at strengthening the bilateral ties of both countries and enhancing their interoperability in crisis situation, most especially in terrorism.

In a separate statement from the US Embassy, it said the Tempest Wind was approved by the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board last November 2016. /jpv