PH, US reaffirm commitment to Mutual Defense Treaty

From the Philippine News Agency (Jul 28, 2022): PH, US reaffirm commitment to Mutual Defense Treaty (By Priam Nepomuceno)

COMMITMENT. Incoming Defense Undersecretary Franco Nemesio Gacal (right) receives US Secretary of the Navy Carlos del Toro during the latter’s visit to the DND main office in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City on July 26, 2022. Del Toro underscored Washington DC's commitment to a positive and productive relationship with Manila. (Photo courtesy of the Office of the US Secretary of the Navy)

The Philippines and the United States reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the Mutual Defense Treaty.

This took place during the visit of US Secretary of the Navy Carlos del Toro to the Department of National Defense (DND) on July 26 to discuss developments in bilateral defense relations with senior Philippine defense officials.

"Incoming Undersecretary (Franco Nemesio) Gacal welcomed Secretary del Toro to the Philippines, who is visiting the country for the first time as the US Secretary of Navy. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty," DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Thursday.

During the meeting, Del Toro commended the professionalism and dedication of the Philippine Navy.

He also underscored the commitment of US President Joe Biden to a positive and productive relationship with the Philippines, saying they look forward to working closely with the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

"Undersecretary Gacal echoed the statements of the President in relation to an independent foreign policy and reaffirmed the DND's mission to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Philippines," Andolong said.

Del Toro also cited the importance of ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, as well as respecting rules and international laws.

It was emphasized that both the Philippines and the US can learn from each other during education and training exchanges.

"The meeting ended with the two officials reaffirming the friendship, partnership and alliance between the Philippines and the US," Andolong said.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1180005