The U.S. and Philippine armed forces have begun a two-week KAMANDAG naval exercise amid tensions between Washington and Beijing, INQUIRER reports.

The maneuvers will last until Oct. 14 and involve 2,500 U.S. military personnel and 530 Philippine military personnel.

In the course of the exercise, an amphibious landing, live shooting and humanitarian assistance will be practiced. Japan and South Korea will participate in the maneuvers as observers.