US vows to help fight terrorism

The United States vowed to continue to support the Philippines’ fight against terrorism and the rehabilitation of Marawi City while stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law and human rights.

This was discussed at the annual bilateral strategic dialogue between the Philippines and the United States held in Washington  from Nov. 30 to Dec. 1.

In a joint statement issued on Dec. 2, both sides said they affirmed their commitment to deepen collaboration in maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, cybersecurity, antidrug trafficking, counterterrorism, and drug prevention and treatment services.

Senior officials from both sides also pledged to continue to work together to eliminate human trafficking and combat wildlife trafficking and illegal fishing.

“The US and Philippine delegations emphasized the importance of the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms,” read their joint statement.