27 January 2012 "Yes, it is to our definite advantage to be exploring how to maximize our treaty alliance with the United States in ways that would be mutually acceptable and beneficial.If there could be the possibility of threats to our national interest in terms of, say, territorial disputes, we should be prepared to deal with these issues diplomatically. To complement the diplomatic approach we must at the very least also endeavor to achieve a minimum credible defense posture.
As our treaty ally, the US has offered to help us. Beyond responding to some of our needs in terms of military equipment and training, to compensate for our lack of resources, we would want to additionally explore other means of acceptable assistance and cooperation from the US such as, for instance, planning more joint exercises to promote interoperability and a rotating and more frequent presence by them.
Any actions taken will be consistent with our treaty obligations and in accordance with Philippine laws and the Constitution.Such cooperative efforts would as well result in achieving a balance of influence to ensure peace, stability, and economic development in the region." END