The militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols on Tuesday in the South China Sea. The move is likely to fan further tensions as China has warned the Philippines against activities with the United States. The exercise is also being called the Philippines's defense posture amid China's aggressive activities in the highly strategic waters, long seen as a potential flashpoint between the United States and China. However, China's embassy in Manila did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the exercise.<br />''<br />''According to a Philippine military statement, the joint maritime and air patrols are taking place<b> </b>in the area of the Batanes islands and heading west to the South China Sea.<br />''<br />''<span style="color: #222222;">South China Sea had become more dire than it was before with the Chinese military inching closer to the Philippine coastline.</span>