Metro Manila, Philippines—The Philippines and three allies hold a multilateral maritime cooperative activity in the country’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) today and tomorrow, Aug. 7-8.

In a joint statement, the Philippines, United States, Australia, and Canada said the maritime activity aims to “uphold the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, as well as respect for maritime rights under international law, as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.”

There was no mention of the location of the exercises.

“The naval and air force units of participating nations will operate together, enhancing cooperation and interoperability between our armed forces. The activity will be conducted in a manner that is consistent with international law and with due regard to the safety of navigation and the rights and interests of other states,” the joint statement said.

The activity aims to address maritime challenges in the South China Sea as the four allies reaffirm their support for the 2016 Arbitral Award that negated China’s sweeping claim of the vital waterway.

In June, the country also took part in joint maritime exercises among the US, Canada, and Japan.

NewsWatch Plus Senior Correspondent Tristan Nodalo contributed to this report