The armed forces of the Philippines, the United States, and four other countries have begun joint naval exercises off the coast of the Philippines' northern Luzon, which borders Taiwan, according to Reuters.

This year's Kamandag exercise involves troops from the Philippines, the US, Japan, Australia, the UK and South Korea, along with observers The Philippines and the United States have kicked off an annual military exercise involving more allies this year amid growing concerns over a potential conflict in the Asia-Pacific region.

The US and Philippines have joined forces for military drills after major clashes between Filipino and Chinese vessels, and heightening tensions with Taiwan.