The latest round of US-Philippine joint military exercises have officially gotten underway, off the coast of Palawan Province. After a week of warm-up drills and military exchanges, Monday's activities marked the start of real-time offshore action in the Sulu Sea.

The schedule included tactical coordinated boat assaults, and beach landings. Two groups of Philippine marines took part, each led by one US counterpart. Two vessels changed their formations, according to previous plans, to simulate rescue and cover operations for soldiers who fell into the water. These exercises were aimed at testing coordination between the two sides, and increasing offshore capabilities, in case of emergencies.

The maritime sessions will last until Friday. Over the next three days, the Philippine and American navies will also proceed with marine ammunition drills, as well as other programs.