Phl-US observe 63rd anniversary of MDT

MANILA, Philippines - The United States highlighted yesterday the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) with the Philippines and reiterated its “ironclad” commitment to defend its former colony.

“Today is the 63rd anniversary of the signing of the Philippines and USA Mutual Defense Treaty. Our commitment is ‘ironclad’ – Pres. Obama,” US Ambassador Philip Goldberg said on his Twitter account in celebration of the 63rd anniversary of the signing of the defense agreement which provides the framework for the Philippines-US military cooperation and partnership.

The US said the MDT serves as the cornerstone of the relationship with the Philippines and a source of stability in the region.

Under the MDT, the Philippines and the US are committed to defend each other in case of an armed attack on the territory of either of the parties, or on the island territories under its jurisdiction in the Pacific or on its armed forces, public vessels or aircraft in the Pacific.

During his visit to Manila in April, US President Barack Obama said his country has an ironclad commitment to defend the Philippines from aggression.