US reaffirms ‘pledge’ to protect PH freedom

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VISITING US Indo-Pacific commander Adm. John Aquilino has called for increased collaboration between US and Philippine armed forces to address mutual concerns, including unlawful claims in the South China Sea.

Aquilino visited Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City on Monday for separate meetings with Philippine military and defense officials to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

AFP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Faustino, who is under quarantine after he tested positive for COVID-19, was represented by Inspector General Lt. Gen. Franco Nemesio Gacal.

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During the meeting, Aquilino re-affirmed Washington’s commitment to the RP-US alliance, which he said is a “pledge” to protect freedom “no matter the size or complexity of the threat.”

“For more than 100 years, the people of our two countries have shared a deep friendship.

One that is based on common set of values and above all a core value to uphold freedom.

This sanctity of freedom was the foundation of our alliance that started 70 years and this is still the case today,” said Aquilino, referring to the signing of the MDT in August 1951.

Aquilino said the alliance, friendship, and trust between the two countries are “more necessary than ever to confront the challenges in this region that threaten our way of life,” and pointed as example the “unlawful maritime claims in the South China Sea” and “maligned influences throughout the region.”

“By strengthening collaboration and increasing the scope of our engagements, we will further grow our bond and ensure its lasting impact. When we stand together, any adversary that scans the horizons and looks for opportunity to betray our principles for their own benefit will see like-minded nations ready to resist and fight to uphold our way of life,” he said.

In his message read by Gacal, Faustino vowed the Philippine military will uphold the MDT.

Faustino said the event “not only showcases the opportunities and avenues in advancing our mutual security interests” but also manifests the commitment of the two countries for a “strong and responsive” alliance amid the “challenging times.”

Likewise, Faustino lauded the Philippine government’s decision to withdraw the notice to terminate the RP-US Visiting Forces agreement that provide legal framework to military exercises between US and Filipino troops.

“With this, the AFP eagerly anticipates the subsequent headways resulting from this sound decision,” said Faustino, adding the joint cooperation between the two militaries will branch out and fortify and sharpen their capabilities.

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