U.S., Philippines Agree on Military Engagements During Annual Meeting

Adm. Timothy J. Keating, commander of U.S. Pacific Command, and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief of Staff Gen. Victor Ibrado, co-chaired the annual Mutual Defense Board (MDB) and Security Engagement Board (SEB) meetings Aug. 13 in Manila.

During the meetings the two reviewed the previous year’s military-to-military activities and agreed upon an engagement plan for the upcoming year, which includes military exercises, professional exchanges, and counter-terrorism training. Focuses include areas such as maritime security, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to countering terrorism and violent extremism.

The annual meetings ensure that joint exercises and activities conducted between the U.S. and Philippines are relevant and address present concerns of both military forces.

As noted by the Philippines News Agency, this was the 51st MDB and 4th SEB.

The Mutual Defense Board was formed in 1958 to provide a framework and mechanism for direct liaison and consultation between the Philippines and U.S. to develop and improve the common defense of both countries, which share a Mutual Defense Treaty.

The SEB provides a framework and mechanism for direct liaison and consultation on non-traditional security concerns such as, but not limited to, terrorism, transnational crimes, maritime security and safety, natural and man-made disasters.