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 armed forces of the United States and Philippines began large-scale joint exercises with key allies on Tuesday that will take place in several areas in the Philippines, including those facing Taiwan and the South China Sea.

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