US Army Pacific chief highlights PH-US alliance in 4-day visit

PHOTO FROM US EMBASSY MANILA

US Army Pacific commander Gen. Robert Brown took the opportunity to emphasize the Philippine-US ties to the Indo-Pacific during his four-day visit to Manila.

The visit focused on reaffirming the US Army’s close ties with its Philippine counterparts and the increasing interoperability of the two militaries in the coming year, the US Embassy said in a statement on Tuesday.

Brown, who leads the US Army forces in the Indo-Pacific region, was in Manila from November 10 to 13, where he attended the PH-US Veterans Day, the Manila American Cemetery in Taguig City, and a speaking engagement at the National Defense College of the Philippines.

“It’s a privilege to visit the Philippines for Veterans Day and to recognize both our countries’ militaries and their decades of service to the American and Philippine people,” Brown was quoted as saying.

“Together, Americans and Filipinos have fought valiantly in defense of their nations, loved ones, and way of life. We honor their sacrifices by continuing to support a free and open Indo-Pacific alongside our friend, partner, and ally, the Philippines,” he added.

He also met with Defense Usec. Cardozo Luna, AFP chief Gen. Calito Galvez Jr. and Army chief Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto. /kga