US soldiers in the exercise (Source: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippineand US armies on May 18 reaffirmed their alliance and joint commitment toaddressing security challenges as they ended the year’s largest exercises in theSoutheast Asian country.
Speaking at the closing ceremonyof the annual Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) exercises, Philippine DefenceUndersecretary Cardozo Luna highlighted the commitment to strengthening long-standingsecurity alliance, considering it a cornerstone of stability and security.
The Balikatan exercises helped buildready and effective forces, capable of responding to security challenges. Thisannual activity allowed the US and Philippine forces to work together forpotential real world events, he said.
The Philippines and the US signedthe Mutual Defence Treaty in 1951, ensuring each other's security assistance intimes of armed attacks. The Balikatan exercises and other military training anddrills are anchored on the treaty.
This year's Balikatan, the 34th since 1991, lasted 12 days to enhance joint collaboration against terrorism andin humanitarian activities. As many as 5,000 US and 3,000 Philippine soldiers joinedthe event.
Japanese and Australian militarypersonnel also took part as observers.-VNA
Speaking at the closing ceremonyof the annual Balikatan (Shoulder-to-Shoulder) exercises, Philippine DefenceUndersecretary Cardozo Luna highlighted the commitment to strengthening long-standingsecurity alliance, considering it a cornerstone of stability and security.
The Balikatan exercises helped buildready and effective forces, capable of responding to security challenges. Thisannual activity allowed the US and Philippine forces to work together forpotential real world events, he said.
The Philippines and the US signedthe Mutual Defence Treaty in 1951, ensuring each other's security assistance intimes of armed attacks. The Balikatan exercises and other military training anddrills are anchored on the treaty.
This year's Balikatan, the 34th since 1991, lasted 12 days to enhance joint collaboration against terrorism andin humanitarian activities. As many as 5,000 US and 3,000 Philippine soldiers joinedthe event.
Japanese and Australian militarypersonnel also took part as observers.-VNA
VNA
