Phl, US troops to hold naval exercises

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Thousands of troops from the Philippines and the United States will stage naval exercises in western and northern Philippines later this month, a military official said Tuesday.

Philippine Navy Public Affairs Officer Lieutenant Commander Marineth Domingo said some 2,700 Philippine and US troops will participate in the Philippine-US Amphibious Landing Exercise ( PHIBLEX) which will run from September 29 to October 10.

"The exercise is meant to improve the interoperability and combat readiness of Philippine and US troops, improve relations of the two militaries and enhance security cooperation in the region," said Domingo.

She said training activities will be held in various areas in the provinces of Palawan and Zambales.

Philippine and US troops will also pursue humanitarian activities, including medical missions and the construction of school buildings.