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SEOUL — Approximately 500 soldiers from the 2nd Infantry Division will deploy to the Philippines next month to participate in the joint Balikatan humanitarian training exercise, according to 8th Army.

The annual exercise, held this year from April 5-15, trains Philippine and U.S. troops to respond to natural disasters and other crisis.

The two countries will conduct humanitarian assistance projects in Central and Southern Luzon during the exercise, including offering free medical, dental and veterinary care in some communities. Military engineers will construct and repair schools and other infrastructure, according to 8th Army.

Approximately 6,000 U.S. troops will take part in the exercise, the 27th in the Balikatan series.

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