Phl marks milestone defense treaty with U.S.

The Department of National Defense (DND) reaffirmed the nation's commitment to its defense alliance with the United States on Sunday as both countries celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty.

In a statement, Defense officials described the 1951 accord as a cornerstone of shared efforts toward peace, regional stability and a free and open Indo-Pacific.

DND leaders cited that the security partnership has adapted to an increasingly complex regional environment, expanding through bilateral and multilateral exercises, operational coordination, capability enhancements, maritime security cooperation and disaster response missions.

"These efforts have enhanced interoperability, strengthened deterrence, and demonstrated our collective resolve to uphold regional security and stability," the DND said.

Signed on 30 August 1951, the treaty serves as the foundational framework for Philippine-U.S. defense relations.

The pact has since been bolstered by key security agreements, including the Visiting Forces Agreement and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

The anniversary comes as the Philippines faces heightened maritime challenges in the South China Sea alongside efforts to modernize its military and expand external defense capabilities.

Both nations pledged to build a more sustainable and agile partnership grounded in international law, freedom of navigation and shared interests.

Separately, the Armed Forces of the Philippines released a statement emphasizing that the treaty continues to underpin joint defense operations, adding that the military remains committed to enhancing interoperability and regional security.