[ad_1]
MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the US Indo-Pacific Command pledged on Wednesday to strengthen the mutual defense alliance between the Philippines and the United States in a bid to adapt to a “changing security environment,” they said. the armed forces. .
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Gilbert Gapay and US Indo-Pacific Command Chief Admiral Philip Davidson said the military forces of both countries aim to ensure security in the region.
“We view the alliance as a strong and resilient partnership that must respond to the ever-changing security environment,” Gapay said in a statement.
The two military leaders headed the Mutual Defense Board Security Engagement Board meeting that was held for the virtual first time.
The United States and the Philippines also pledged to strengthen communications and technology transfer.
“The United States and the Philippines remain steadfast allies in our quest for regional peace and stability. Our close cooperation ensures that our forces are interoperable and a formidable force for stability throughout the region, while further strengthening the ties that make us such close friends, allies and partners, “Davidson said.
Gapay echoed Davidson, saying AFP envisions an alliance that will lead to “great interoperability” between the two armed forces.
“The AFP expects our alliance to continue with mutually beneficial activities,” he said.
The meeting is held annually between AFP and the US Indo-Pacific Command to discuss security issues, mutual cooperation and strategic vision, which was based on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, according to the statement.
Military leaders also discussed the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on activities and other international commitments between the alliance, which includes the Balikatan exercises.
They also suggested using training bubbles and reducing military exercises to prevent transmission of COVID-19.
“Our alliance should continue to provide the mechanism to further enhance our already strong defense cooperation by pursuing capacity development initiatives,” said the AFP chief.
In February, the Department of Foreign Relations sent a notice to the US to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement, which provides legal cover for military exercises between US and Philippine troops.
The notice was sent after the United States canceled the visa of Senator Ronald dela Rosa, a former PNP chief who led the government’s war on drugs.
Termination of the VFA was supposed to go into effect 180 days after the notice was delivered, or in August. In June, the Philippine government informed the US that it was suspending the termination of the agreement for 6 months due to the pandemic.
AFP, US Indo-Pacific Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines, US-Philippine relations, regional stability, security, PH-US mutual defense. USA, Balikatan Exercises, Gapay, Mutual Defense Board Security Engagement, Philippines News, ANC, ANC Top
[ad_2]