MILITARY INTEL-SHARING PACT. Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and US Department Of Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III sign the General Security of Military Information Agreement at the AFP Commissioned Officers’ Club in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City Monday (Nov. 18, 2024). The pact also allows the Philippines to access higher capabilities and big-ticket items from the United States and pursue similar agreements with other like-minded nations. (Photo courtesy of the DND)
DAVAO CITY – The Philippines and the United States solidified their defense alliance on Monday with the signing of a military intelligence-sharing agreement, marking another step in strengthening interoperability between the two nations.
Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and visiting US Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III formalized the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) headquarters.
GSOMIA serves as a security framework enabling the exchange of classified military information while ensuring its protection. This agreement positions the Philippines to access advanced capabilities, secure high-value defense assets from the US, and explore similar arrangements with allied nations.
Strengthening Ties Through Cooperation
Following the signing, Secretary Teodoro awarded Secretary Austin the Outstanding Achievement Medal (OAM) in recognition of his leadership and unwavering commitment to deepening the Philippines-US defense partnership.
“He (Austin) has been instrumental in reinforcing the enduring partnership between our two nations, ensuring that our shared values of democracy, freedom, and peace continue to guide our cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region,” read the OAM citation.
Teodoro commended Austin’s contributions to enhancing regional stability and security, emphasizing his pivotal role in advancing shared priorities.
Groundbreaking of Joint Coordination Facility
In a ceremony that underscored the growing collaboration between the two countries, Teodoro and Austin also broke ground for a Combined Coordination Center to be established for joint operations.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. hailed the facility as a “gateway for information sharing and strategic coordination.”
“This marks the dawn of a new era in our collaboration, particularly in humanitarian assistance, disaster response, and maritime security,” said Brawner. “The center will significantly enhance our ability to act swiftly and effectively in times of crises.”
US Reaffirms Support Amid Disasters
Austin reiterated the US’ “ironclad commitment” to the Philippines, particularly as the country faces the aftermath of Super Typhoon Pepito and other recent cyclones.
The US has authorized direct support for disaster response operations and pledged an additional $1 million in humanitarian aid to assist affected communities.
“These actions reflect the strength of our alliance,” said Austin. “This important new facility is a testament to our shared resolve in addressing challenges together.”
A Strategic Alliance for Shared Challenges
Teodoro underscored that the initiatives, including the coordination center, align with the Philippines and US’ shared strategic objectives in addressing common threats.
“Secretary Austin’s genuine support and concrete actions resonate deeply, not only with our people but also within the highest levels of our government,” Teodoro said. “This enduring alliance continues to be a cornerstone of our national and regional security.”
About Editha Z. Caduaya
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
