RP, US set for bilateral counter-terrorism drill

From the Daily Tribune (Sep 16): RP, US set for bilateral counter-terrorism drill

The governments of the Philippines and the United States will embark on a bilateral, interagency counter-terrorism drill in mid-September, announced the US Embassy in Manila yesterday.

The Tempest Wind is intended to test and improve the ability of both nations to rapidly plan, coordinate, and conduct counter-terrorism operations.

According to the embassy, the whole-of-government drill will be augmented by additional military assessments, national level engagement, and subject matter expert exchanges.

The events, which will take place in the Philippines and Hawaii, are designed to create a realistic environment to exercise counter-terrorism strategy, including senior decision-making and tactical responses, while deepening the bilateral partnership.

In addition to important information exchanges, the embassy said “Tempest Wind is recognized as a way to test force readiness and exercise interoperability.”

“These assessments will help to focus future bilateral training efforts to enhance the crisis response capabilities of both nations,” its statement reads.

The Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board approved Tempest Wind in November 2016, highlighting the enduring commitment of both countries to the U.S.-Philippine alliance.

The United States, a long-standing ally of the Philippines, continues to provide support and assistance to Philippine counter-terrorism efforts and work jointly to address shared threats to the peace and security of both countries.

Early September, Ambassador Sung Kim announced an assistance of P730 million for emergency relief and recovery assistance to communities affected by the ongoing conflict in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur and its surrounding areas.

“The United States is deeply committed to this relationship and remains ready to support our friend and ally as we face the challenges and opportunities,” Ambassador Kim said. “We all look forward to the end of the crisis, and the end of the fighting and suffering. We have been and will continue to support the Philippine government’s efforts to deal with the crisis.”

Last July, the Washington also provided access to potable water by distributing 12,000 water containers and nearly 100,000 chlorine tablets to 12,000 families staying in evacuation sites in Lanao del Norte, Lanao del Sur, and Iligan City.

http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/rp-us-set-for-bilateral-counter-terrorism-drill