Philippines: DND says Balikatan drills affect over 700 fisherfolk families

On 2026-05-03, the Philippine Department of National Defense said more than 700 fisherfolk families in northern coastal communities were affected by a no-sail policy tied to the ongoing Balikatan drills. Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also led the distribution of food packs and financial assistance to 734 residents in three coastal areas in Ilocos Norte province.