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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PH-US joint maritime activity 'does not target any third country' — DFA

PH-US joint maritime activity 'does not target any third country' — DFA

Published Jan 12, 2024 01:04 pm

The recent joint maritime activity between the Philippines and the US “does not target any third country," the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Friday, amid concerns that it was both countries’ supposed muscle flexing and provocation in the South China Sea.

DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza said the two-day Maritime Cooperation Activity (MCA) between Manila and Washington on Jan. 3 and 4 only showed “the significant improvement in the Philippines’ defense capabilities.”

It also demonstrated “the development of a world-class navy and armed forces capable of carrying out its mandate to defend the territorial integrity of the Philippines and our maritime rights in the West Philippine Sea,” Daza added.

Daza said the activity is already “a routine activity approved by the Mutual Defense Board and Security Engagement Board under the Philippines’ Mutual Defense Treaty with the United States.”

Besides, she said, it was conducted within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone and was consistent with international law. 

“Exercises like the MCA are aimed at enhancing our maritime capabilities and interoperability with the United States, our defense treaty ally, with the view to ensuring security and stability in the region,” she said.

“It does not target any third country,” she added.

Related Tags

Maritime Cooperation South China Sea
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