Manila, Dec. 16 -- Naval and air units from the Philippines and the United States held the 10th bilateral maritime cooperative activity (MCA) in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), highlighting the country's growing capability to integrate with allied forces.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), in a statement Tuesday, said the 10th bilateral MCA with the United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) took place "specifically west of Zambales within the country's exclusive economic zone."

During the exercise, the AFP deployed the (guided missile frigate) BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), three A-29B 'Super Tucano,' three FA-50 fighter jets, and a 'Sokol' search and rescue helicopter. The AFP said this demonstrates the Philippines' growing ...