A joint coastal defense drill has begun in the Philippines with five countries participating, including the US and Japan.

The drill is part of efforts by Manila to strengthen multilateral security cooperation at a time when China is growing aggressive in the disputed South China Sea.

Marine forces of the Philippines and the US kicked off the joint exercise with a ceremony in Manila on Thursday. Combined with delegates from Japan, South Korea and Britain, over 2,700 personnel are taking part.

Major General Arturo Rojas, Philippine Marine Corps Commandant, said, "Together, we send a powerful message to the world, especially to those who may seek to disrupt the peace, that our partnership is unbreakable."

Major General Nashinoki Shingo, Commanding General of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade said, "We'll deepen our cooperation and contribute actively to realize a peaceful, free and open Indo-Pacific region."

The 12-day-long joint exercise aims to confirm methods of guarding coastal areas facing the South China Sea.
The participants also plan to simulate an operation to provide humanitarian aid to a remote island near Taiwan.

The drill comes as tensions between the Philippines and China are increasing. Manila and Beijing traded barbs last month over collisions involving their ships in the contested waters.