links: https://www.afp.mil.ph/index.php/8-afp-news/898-afp-usindopacom-chiefs-affirm-strong-alliance-amid-challenges
CAMP AGUINALDO, Quezon City--Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff General Gilbert Gapay and USINDOPACOM Commander Admiral Philip Davidson both affirmed their commitment to stronger mutual defense alliance during their meeting Thursday, October 29.
The two led the Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board Meeting that was held virtually for the first time due to the on-going pandemic.
"We view the alliance as a strong and resilient partnership that needs to be responsive to the ever changing security environment," General Gapay said.
“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," Adm Davidson added.
The MDB-SEB Meeting is convened annually between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the US Indo-Pacific Command to discuss security cooperation activities and strategic vision for the alliance, anchored on the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.
The military leaders particularly discussed the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the activities and other international engagements slated for 2021, including the Balikatan Exercises.
"The AFP envisions our alliance to continue with mutually beneficial activities that will result in greater interoperability between our armed forces," Gen Gapay said.
To this, General Gapay stressed the importance of utilizing Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement locations and other resources to ensure effective response to different mission areas.
Also, both discussed the possible use of mitigating actions to prevent transmission of SARS-CoV2 including the use of training bubbles and the scaling down of exercises.
However, the AFP Chief said events must conform to the health and safety protocols should the pandemic persist.
"Our alliance should continue to provide the mechanism to further enhance our already robust defense cooperation by pursuing capability building initiatives for our interoperability," General Gapay said.
"I recommend that both our armed forces should commit to continue planning activities to further improve our joint and combined capabilities and interoperability," General Gapay concluded.
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