Philippines, Malaysia discuss West Philippine Sea in reaffirmation of defense cooperation —DND

The Department of National Defense (DND) said it discussed the developments in the West Philippine Sea with its Malaysian counterpart as the two countries reaffirmed their commitment in sustaining defense cooperation.

In a statement on Tuesday, the DND said it and the Malaysian Ministry of Defense will uphold the implementation of their 1994 Memorandum of Understanding.

Both sides shared insights and best practices on their respective response to COVID-19, as well as views on the recent developments in the West Philippine Sea  and the Mindanao Peace Process.

The 9th Philippines-Malaysia Combined Committee on Defense Cooperation (CDCC) was held through a teleconference on March 31.

DND Undersecretary Cesar B. Yano and Malaysian Ministry of Defense Secretary General Hon. Sri Muez bin Abd Aziz chaired the committee.

The officials acknowledged the improvement of bilateral defense cooperation with the significant interactions and engagements between military officials and personnel, DND said.

After the activities between Philippines and Malaysia were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, DND said both countries welcomed plans to resume dialogue platforms and training this year when conditions normalize.

Yano also acknowledged Malaysia’s contribution as Head of Mission of the International Monitoring Team (IMT).

He lauded the efforts of the IMT in monitoring the implementation of the security, socio-economic development, humanitarian, and civilian protection components of the peace process between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), DND said. — Joviland Rita/BM, GMA News