MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States on Sunday reaffirmed their commitment to mutual defense as their security treaty marked its 75th anniversary, with the allies pledging to strengthen cooperation amid growing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.
In a joint statement marking the milestone, the two countries said the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) remains a cornerstone of their alliance and their efforts to promote regional peace and stability.
Signed on Aug. 30, 1951, the MDT commits the Philippines and the US to consult and act to meet common dangers in the event of an armed attack against either country.
The allies said their defense partnership has evolved significantly since the treaty was signed, expanding to include maritime security, military interoperability, disaster response and other areas of cooperation.
The anniversary comes as Manila and Washington continue to deepen defense cooperation through military exercises, joint activities, increased rotational presence and efforts to improve the capabilities of Philippine military facilities.
The two countries also reaffirmed their support for international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, and their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
They vowed to further strengthen the alliance and address both traditional and non-traditional security threats while promoting regional resilience and stability.
