U.S., RP to reduce military exercises

U.S., RP to reduce military exercises

MANILA (AFP): U.S. and Philippine troops will begin a scaled- down version of their annual joint military exercises, officials said Thursday, amid rising tension between the United States and China.

The Pentagon sent 1,700 soldiers, 300 fewer than usual, to take part in the maneuvers, which start Friday and end on May 10.

However, U.S. officials played down the reduction in troops, denying that it was the result of a deterioration in Sino-U.S. relations.

Philippines Vice President Teofisto Guingona said the war games would boost the country's defense capabilities. Unlike in previous years, the two armies will not use live ammunition.

The joint exercises come at a period of heightened tension between the United States and China following U.S. President George W. Bush's announcement of arms sales to Taiwan and a subsequent pledge to defend the island against Chinese attacks.