Philippines, U.S. Launch Annual Joint Military Drills

U.S. and Filipino military officers lead the opening ceremony of the 'Balikatan' joint military exercise at the military headquarters in Quezon City, suburban Manila on April 22, 2024. JAM STA ROSA / AFP

By Pam CASTRO

Thousands of Filipino and American troops kicked off joint military exercises in the Philippines on Monday, as Beijing’s growing assertiveness in the region raises fears of a conflict.

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