US Air Force, Philippine defense officials reaffirm military partnership

US Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett and Philippine defense officials met on Wednesday to discuss alliance and security cooperation concerns.

“The US Air and Space Forces look forward to building on our strong relationship with the Philippine military through greater interoperability and training opportunities with the Philippine Air Force, as well as exploring where our nations can cooperate in the space domain,” Barrett said.

Defense Assistant Secretary Jesus Rey Avilla also expressed optimism about the two countries’ continued cooperation “on various aspects of defense and security, including the Philippines’ current thrust to modernize its Armed Forces.”

Barrett’s visit coincided with the hand over of a P710-million drone to the Philippine Navy.

The US said the ScanEagle Unmanned Aerial System will boost the country’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.

On Monday, US National Security Adviser Robert O’Brien also paid a visit to the Philippines to turn over precision-guided missiles.

The American officials’ visits came amid rising tensions between the US and China.

China earlier accused O’Brien of sowing discord between Beijing and Manila after he vowed support for the Philippines in the South China Sea dispute.

Malacañang, meanwhile, said it would not take part in the US-China battle for “hegemony.” -- Julia Mari Ornedo/BAP, GMA News