15 April 2016: US and Philippines enhance military cooperation
U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter has announced an "enhanced military alliance" between the United States and the Philippines. The United States will position 200 pilots and crew members, as well as six aircraft and three helicopters, at the former Clark Air Base, which is located north of the capital Manila. Carter made the announcement while visiting the Philippines where American and Filipino troops are holding annual joint military drills. Speaking at a news conference with Philippines Defense Minister Voltaire Gazmin, Carter said the two countries have been conducting joint patrols in the South China Sea and will increase them furthermore in order to ensure the security of the region's waters.
