Article Posted on : - Aug 16, 2013

MANILA (AP): The Philippine defence chief says a larger US military presence in his country will help Manila detect and deter territorial intrusions in the South China Sea through information-sharing but American troops will still be banned from getting involved in regular security operations.

US and Filipino officials began negotiations on Wednesday in Manila on a new defence agreement that would allow larger numbers of US troops to have access to Philippine military camps and bring in aircraft, ships and other security assets into the country.

Defence Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said a larger US presence can lead to more joint military training.

The Philippines' desire to bolster its defence has dovetailed with Washington's intention to pivot away from years of heavy military engagement in Afghanistan and Iraq to Asia.