The United States and the Philippines will double the size of their annual war games this month, with some exercises to be staged close to a South China Sea flashpoint. The 10-day exercises between the long-time allies will be held as fears grow in the Philippines that China is seeking to take control of the strategically vital and resource-rich sea. Nearly 12,000 soldiers will be involved in this year’s edition in several locations in the Philippines, including a naval station directly facing the disputed waters, military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc said.

War games set amid sea row. (2015, April 8). Manila Standard, p. D11.