The Armed Forces of the Philippines expresses its gratitude for the support extended by Senators Francis Tolentino, Francis Escudero and Sherwin Gatchalian to the implementation of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). This manifestation of support is in line with our treaty obligation as contained in the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951.
Since the signing of EDCA in 2014, it has continuously facilitated the conduct of military exercises and HADR operations in support to the AFP mission. Likewise, with the threat of climate change, our partnership with modern and well-equipped countries such as the United States of America will develop the capability of our troops in executing humanitarian and disaster response (HADR) operations in times of natural calamities and disasters.
In addition to capability development, our engagement with a friend and a long-time ally also brings economic activities and opportunities that will benefit the people of the host local government units. This will further improve business confidence that will provide economic stability that investors seek.
The AFP and the US Armed Forces are once again holding the 38th iteration of annual bilateral Balikatan Exercises. Although this is a bilateral activity, the AFP takes the lead in planning and execution, supported by the US Armed Forces with other like-minded nations as observers. Balikatan 38-2023 will result in the development of the AFP capability not only in the conduct of external defense operations but also in fulfilling its obligation in working with other countries in the region against terrorism and other threats.
