LAL-LO PHILIPPINES - For one U.S. Navy medical officer, participating in Balikatan is more than a mission. For Lt. Zari Alquizalas, her support is personal.
“Balikatan translates to shoulder to shoulder,” she said. “As a Filipino-American who grew up in the Philippines and now serves in the U.S. Navy, it feels like I carry both countries on my shoulders. This exercise bridges that identity. It’s one of the few times in my life where I feel fully both Filipino and American.”
That dual identity has shaped her experience on the ground, particularly in her role as the medical officer for Marine Wing Support Squadron 371, Marine Air Control Group 38, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. She oversees a team of three corpsmen distributed across multiple locations, including Lal-lo and Basco, Batanes. Together, they ensure forward arming and refueling points remain medically supported and maintain a battalion aid station capable of role 1 care.
Her connection to the Philippines adds depth to her mission.
“It feels nostalgic,” she said. “Growing up, I accompanied my grandparents on medical missions in remote areas. Seeing that same need for accessible care and now being in a position to contribute to it brings everything full circle.”
That familiarity has also proven operationally valuable. Her ability to speak the language and understand cultural nuances allows her to navigate local healthcare systems more effectively, coordinating with hospitals and providers to ensure Marines have access to care if needed.
“There’s a certain trust that comes with being Filipino,” she explained. “It opens doors and helps build relationships with local staff, contractors, and communities.”
That trust and coordination were tested early in the exercise during a real-world emergency involving Filipino civilians.
“Six casualties were rescued and treated,” she said. “Four were transported by ground, and two urgent cases were medically evacuated to Fort Magsaysay. All six survived.”
She credits that outcome to seamless tri-service cooperation.
“Airmen, Sailors, Soldiers, and Marines worked together with clear roles and closed-loop communication,” she said. “That’s exactly why medical collaboration during exercises like this is critical. It directly impacts survival.”
Despite the success, the environment presents challenges. Limited supplies, restricted imaging and lab capabilities, and a high operational tempo require adaptability.
“We rely heavily on patient history, provider experience, and the resourcefulness of our corpsmen,” she said. “You learn quickly how to do more with less.”
Beyond emergency response, the mission also emphasizes humanitarian impact. Medical personnel across Balikatan are actively engaging in community outreach, bringing care to underserved areas like Lal-lo.
“This isn’t just about training for combat scenarios,” she said. “It’s about being prepared for anything, natural disasters, humanitarian crises and making a lasting impact on the communities we operate in.”
For her, the experience represents both professional validation and personal fulfillment.
“I left the Philippines at 17 to pursue my education in the U.S. and eventually commission as a Navy medical officer,” she said. “Coming back in this capacity feels like a childhood dream realized.”
Looking ahead, she sees Balikatan as a symbol of enduring partnership.
“Our strength relies on our allies, and the Philippines is one of our longest-standing partners,” she said. “This exercise shows not only what we’re capable of together, but also that cooperation and humanitarian support are essential to our shared future.”