'Balikatan' a good example of working relationship between two nations -- Goldberg

From the Philippine News Agency (May 5): 'Balikatan' a good example of working relationship between two nations -- Goldberg

As Filipino and American forces formally commenced "Balikatan 2014" this Monday, US Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg said that the annual military exercise is a fine example of a working relationship between two nations.

"This year's exercise is a good example of what the relationship can be, defined by shared interests, shared ties, and shared goals, shoulder-to-shoulder we stand together, ready to defend (if) necessary and assist when needed," he said.

Goldberg stated that "Balikatan" is an offshoot of the long standing relations between the US and Philippine militaries, a partnership that has greatly contributed to regional security and stability.

"This is an important time for both our countries when it comes to national security. as most of you know I was on the stage last week with (Defense) Secretary (Voltaire) Gazmin signing the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. The EDCA will help the US-Philippines alliance continue to promote the peace and stability that has underpinned Asia's remarkable economic growth over the last six decades. The EDCA updates and strengthen US-Philippines defense cooperation to meet 21st century challenges and will facilitate the enhanced rotational presence of US forces, facilitate humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in the Philippines and the region, to improve opportunities for bilateral training and support the long term modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as it works to establish a minimum credible defense, Exercise 'Balikatan' is a prime example of the benefits that mutual security cooperation can bring to both our countries, by strengthen our armed forces, improving communities and developing relationships," the US Ambassador stressed.

Goldberg added that Americans and Filipinos need to look no further as this was exemplified by US rescue efforts during the aftermath of super typhoon "Yolanda" last Nov. 8.

"We need look no further than the response to Typhoon 'Yolanda' which made landfall six months ago today to see the immeasurable value of those relationship. by the end of the initial relief efforts after 'Yolanda' in November the US military coordinated over USD 31 million worth of assistance and working shoulder-to-shoulder with their Philippine counterparts, help evacuate over 21,000 people and move over 2,000 tons of supplies from government and civilian relief organizations into the affected areas," he pointed out.

"Operation 'Damayan' was proof of the American commitment to close friends and neighbors in the Philippines in times of need, the successful response to Typhoon 'Yolanda' began with exercises like this one, regular bilateral training and operations develop strong bonds and effective teamwork which enable rapid and effective action in times of crisis, so remember while this maybe an exercise the skills you practice here have real world implications for the safety and security not just of the Philippines but the entire region," Goldberg concluded.

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