Philippines, US mark 60th year of mutual defense pact

The 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the Philippines and the US still serves as the cornerstone of the two countries’ relations and a “source of stability in the region,” according to the US Department of State.

In a statement on the treaty’s 60th anniversary, Victoria Nuland, spokesperson of the Washington, DC-based agency, noted that the two nations “share a deep and abiding friendship forged in a history of common sacrifice.”

“The many Filipinos who served bravely beside American servicemen and women during World War II and the veterans buried at the Manila American Cemetery bear testament to our shared past,” said Nuland.

She pointed out that the US alliance with the Philippines continues to grow in the 21st century.

“Whether we are working together to combat extremism, help victims of natural disasters or stand up for human rights, the people of our countries share a mutual desire to build a better world for future generations,” Nuland added.

Earlier, the State Department said the strong security relationship between Manila and Washington had rested on the treaty.

Under the MDT, each party recognizes than an armed attack in the Pacific area on either of the parties would be dangerous to its own peace and safety and declares that it would act to meet the common dangers in accordance with its constitutional processes.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said the treaty had been a long-standing, vital aspect of Philippine defense policy and posture.

“It is the sole defensive framework entered into by the Philippines. It has served both countries well since the 1950s and has continuing relevance,” said the DFA.

For his part, Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario on Wednesday cited the MDT as an “anchor of our enduring defense alliance.” With a report from Dona Z. Pazzibugan