PH, US affirm strong defense alliance in security engagement meet

MANILA – The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their defense alliance.

This came as Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff, Gen. Gilbert Gapay, and US Indo-Pacific Command commander, Admiral Philip Davison, on Thursday convened the Mutual Defense Board – Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) Meeting, which was held virtually for the first time due to the pandemic.

“We view the alliance as a strong and resilient partnership that needs to be responsive to the ever-changing security environment,” Gapay said.

The MDB-SEB Meeting is being held annually between the AFP and the US Indo-Pacific Command to discuss security cooperation activities and a strategic vision for the alliance, anchored on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

“The United States and the Philippines remain steadfast allies in our pursuit of regional peace and stability. Our close cooperation ensures 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.

During the meeting, military leaders of both countries discussed the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) health crisis on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the annual “Balikatan” exercises.

Gapay said the AFP envisioned the alliance with the US to continue with mutually beneficial activities that would result in greater interoperability between the two militaries.

“Our alliance should continue to provide the mechanism to further enhance our already robust defense cooperation by pursuing capability building initiatives for our interoperability,” he added.

Gapay also noted the importance of using Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations and other resources to ensure an effective response to different mission areas.

Also discussed was the possible use of mitigating actions to prevent the transmission of Covid-19, including the use of training bubbles and the scaling down of exercises.

However, he said events must conform to health and safety protocols, should the pandemic persist.