Ilocos Norte implemented a no-sail zone for the conduct of the counter-landing live fire exercises of the 2024 Balikatan drills on Monday, May 6, in the La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag City.
Col. Michael Logico said that the notice to mariners (NOTAM) seeks to ensure the safety of fisherfolk and commercial vessels entering the exercise area.
"This has been published three weeks in advance to give our local fishermen and other mariners a chance to adjust and also a chance to prepare," Logico said on Sunday, May 5, during a press conference.
Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Joseph Manotoc said that around 600 foreign troops, mostly American soldiers, arrived in the province for the exercises.
Manotoc mentioned that Japan, and Australia sent out contingents to observe the annual joint military exercises between the Philippines and the United States.
The 2024 Balikatan exercises started on April 22 and will run until May 10.
