THE United States-Asean Business Council (US-ABC) is eyeing a collaborative effort to strengthen the defense posture of the Philippines amid the growing tensions in the West Philippine Sea.
On a recent visit to the Philippines, the group met with Defense Secretary Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. to explore potential areas of cooperation between Manila and Washington in the defense and security sectors.
The US-ABC delegation, led by President and CEO Ted Osius, presented a wide range of projects aligned with the Defense department’s strategic goals to enhance its capabilities.
The US-ABC delegation is composed of representatives from multiple corporations that are united in their commitment to fostering collaboration between the US and Asean countries.
These projects include cooperation in cybersecurity, pension programs, health care coverage human papillomavirus (HPV) and pneumonia vaccines, time-sensitive shipment handling and delivery, advanced weather forecasting systems, technology and internet services, as well as sustainable energy sources.
The delegation’s visit highlights the close alliance between the Philippines and the US while enhancing security and economic cooperation, and embracing innovation for a more resilient future.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has reaffirmed the US’ commitment to its decades-long defense treaty with the Philippines in light of the aggressive posturing by China in the South China Sea.
Recent incursions by Chinese coast guard and maritime vessels in waters well within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone have touched off a string of diplomatic protests by Manila.
Beijing defends its actions by saying that it is merely asserting its right to protect its territory.
China’s claim to almost all of the South China Sea has been repudiated by an arbitral court in 2016, but it refuses to accept the ruling.
Source : The Manila Times
