The US and the Philippines launched their annual joint military drills on Tuesday under a cloud of uncertainty.
Bilateral ties between the allies have been strained by a number of recent inflammatory remarks made by Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.
The firebrand leader has threatened to end future military drills between the longstanding allies as well as aiming personal, verbal attacks towards President Obama.
White House spokesperson Josh Earnest said the two nations have a longstanding relationship...
IN: There is a long...'
OUT: '...these two countries'
DUR: 30 secs
However, he said the outbursts from the Filipino Leader are at odds with the countries' shared values...
IN: But it's a...'
OUT: '...concerns'
DUR: 23 secs
Josh Earnest said the US will continue to insist that Human Rights are respected...
IN:There's an opportunity...'
OUT: '...deeply troubling'
DUR: 27 secs