Dellosa, Locklear to tackle security issues

US Pacific Command Chief Admiral Samuel Locklear. U.S. NAVY FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines – Military leaders, Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Jessie Dellosa and US Pacific Command Chief Admiral Samuel Locklear will meet at Camp Aguinaldo Thursday to discuss defense and security matters.

AFP spokesman Colonel Arnulfo Marcelo Burgos Jr. on Wednesday told reporters that the meeting is the last stretch of PH-US Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board meetings after the standing committee meetings and the executive committee meeting held months ago.

“The regular conduct of these annual activities is important in maintaining the robust defense and security relations between the two countries, and as such significantly reaffirms commitment to their strategic partnership,” Burgos said.

The meetings were part of the treaty obligations pursuant to the Mutual Defense Treaty and Visiting Forces Agreement.

The pact between the US and the Philippines says that both countries will support each other when attacked by an external party.

“This will also serve as a mechanism for consultations of mutual security concerns and this will also serve as a venue to mutually agree upon activities and arrangement involving both countries,” Burgos said.

The spokesman did not confirm whether both leaders will discuss issues with China.