Philippines, US hold joint sail in disputed South China Sea shoal

The joint sail showcased the Philippines' frigate Antonio Luna, a Philippine Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel, as well as two military planes and a helicopter.

The US Indo-Pacific Command deployed the USS John Finn, an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer and an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter.

Military engagements between the treaty allies have soared under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, who has pivoted closer to Washington in response to China's growing presence in the South China Sea.

China claims sovereignty over nearly all the South China Sea, including parts of the exclusive economic zones of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam.

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores; Editing by David Stanway)