On April 2012 19, the Philippines and the US Marine Corps conducted a close combat simulation exercise in Ye Fu Town, south of Manila, Philippines. The Philippines and the United States began a two-week joint military exercise codenamed "Side by Side" on 16.

In this way, the US military maintains its military presence in Southeast Asia, integrates into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations through carrot and stick, and woos countries with territorial or resource disputes with China. Add weight to the strategic situation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Every year, the US military conducts large-scale military exercises around the world to enhance its combat capability.