Secretary of National Defense (SND) Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. met with Her Excellency MaryKay L. Carlson, US Ambassador to the Philippines, during the latter’s courtesy call at the Department of National Defense (DND) just the other day .
During the call, Ambassador Carlson commended the Secretary’s transformative vision for the DND, recognizing the Secretary’s dedication to enhancing the capabilities and effectiveness of the department. The two officials acknowledged the robust engagement between the two defense departments and expressed satisfaction with the renewed and positive momentum in the Philippines-US defense engagements.
As previously discussed during a recent phone call between the SND and US Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, both countries renewed their commitment to maintaining an ironclad relationship, through streamlining procedures and ensuring that strategic objectives for the alliance are being met, DND spokesman Director Arsenio Andolong said.
The meeting also acknowledged challenges faced by the alliance, with a particular focus on priority areas of cooperation, notably capability building, maritime security, and cybersecurity. The US likewise expressed its unwavering support for the Philippines’ stance on the arbitral ruling, underscoring its commitment to upholding international law and promoting stability in the region.
The call ended with the shared resolve to deepen cooperation, strengthen mutual understanding, and promote peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
