US troops to be deployed in Philippines rebel stronghold

Previous proposals to hold the exercises in Sulu have been met with opposition from local groups, including certain Philippine officials.

There had also been technical disagreements between Manila and Washington over the terms of reference governing the exercises.

Under Philippine laws, foreign troops cannot engage in combat in this country and American troops in previous exercises could only fire back in self-defence.

Ms Arroyo did not say how the disagreements had been resolved or when American soldiers would be sent to Sulu or how many would go there.