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The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and representatives of the United States military are set to meet in Baguio City on August 29 for the annual Mutual Defense Board – Security Engagement Board (MDB-SEB). AFP spokesperson Colonel Francel Margareth Padilla said their meeting with the US Indo-Pacific Command will cover policy directions on defense and security issues. “The regular convening of the MDB-SEB underscores the long-standing relationship between the Philippine and US militaries, concluding a year of bilateral planning and training between the allied forces,” she told reporters. “The MDB-SEB further strengthens the cooperation between the Philippines and the United States, reaffirming both nations' shared commitment to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the joint pursuit of a free and open Indo-Pacific region against the backdrop of a rules-based international order.” she added. During the meeting, the list of activities between the two countries for 2025 are expected to be approved, according to Padilla. In July, the US announced a $500 million funding for the Philippine military and coast guard amid concerns over China's increasing aggression in the West Philippine Sea. The financial aid will be used for "hardening" Philippine capabilities to deter unlawful aggression, according to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. Teodoro's counterpart, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, said the funding for the Philippines is “unprecedented” and “sends a clear message of support for the Philippines from the Biden-Harris administration, the US, Congress and the American people.”
