A Filipino-Australian soldier taking part in Exercise Balikatan 2026 in Palawan shared his pride in returning to the Philippines while serving with the Australian Defence Force.
Corporal Sam Escobia, 24, is part of a Darwin-based infantry unit supporting joint training with Filipino and American troops. His role as a quartermaster includes managing supplies, weapons, and ammunition to ensure smooth operations.
His visit sparked excitement among relatives in Manila, who initially wanted to travel to see him. However, Escobia advised against it due to security restrictions in military areas, saying he would instead visit them during time off.
Escobia said he feels proud to represent both his Filipino heritage and his Australian service. Born in Manila, he moved to Darwin with his family in 2008 and later joined the military after finishing school.
Around 400 Australian personnel are deployed to the Philippines from April 20 to May 8 for the annual exercise, which involves the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the United States military. Australia has joined the drills since 2014.
“Balikatan,” which means “shoulder to shoulder” in Filipino, highlights cooperation between allied forces.
