US and Philippine Marines return from a security patrol during Balikatan 24 at Itbayat, Philippines.US Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Malia SparksUS and Philippine Marines conducted security operations in key terrain near Taiwan's south coast.They practiced defending strategic areas in preparation for a potential conflict with China.The mission aims to integrate Philippine forces into US operations and build rapport with locals.The Marines were just over a hundred miles away from the southern tip of Taiwan when they seized the airstrip.