USINDOPACOM, AFP renew defense, security commitment in Hawaii meet
The United States Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) renewed their commitment to deepen ties and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region during the annual Mutual Defense Board-Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB) at Camp Smith in Hawaii last August 7 to 8, 2025.
USINDOPACOM commander Admiral Samuel J. Paparo and AFP Chief of staff General Romeo Brawner approved several joint exercises during the meeting, including the return of Balikatan exercises next year.
"During the visit, Paparo and Brawner signed the annual 8-Star memo and activities list, approving guidance and plans for continued collaboration, including Exercise Balikatan 2026, in the coming year," USINDOPACOM said in a statement.
"The co-chairs approved more than 500 joint engagements, ranging from large-scale exercises to smaller subject matter expert exchanges. These collaborations foster sustained interaction between both militaries and enhance operational readiness", the command added.
USINDOPACOM pointed out that bilateral and multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activities "are essential in ensuring freedom of navigation and improving interoperability."
The MDB-SEB also renews the shared commitment of Manila and Washington to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, which binds both countries to come to each other's aid during an attack.
The Mutual Defense Board was established in 1958, and the Security Engagement Board was established in 2006. — Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News
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