“[Memorial Day] is a perfect example because we have a long history, part of that history involves fighting together for our freedom, and World War II was the most outstanding example of Americans and Filipinos coming together to defend countries and to fight for our countries together,” Law toldIn his speech during the ceremony, Law also underscored how the war created a bond between the two countries “that exists to this day and remains strong to this day.
“Here in the Philippines, hundreds of thousands fought side-by-side, shoulder-to-shoulder, and died to defend our countries, to defend our freedom, and to defend our democracy…in doing so, they established a bond that exists to this day and remains strong to this day.” Law said. Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Salvador Mison also expressed support towards the United States in remembering the lives of the fallen troops.“Today, we are facing real challenges and even confront threats that transcend boundaries such as transnational crimes, piracy, terrorism, and even climate change,” Mison said.
President Rodrigo Duterte also expressed his intentions to maintain the strong relationship between the two nations, particularly ties in defense and security, as well as peace and orderForeign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr., on multiple occasions, also said that the United States is the country’s “only military ally.”
The US is and will remain our only military ally. You can't make an ally out of a near power—too close for comfort. Natural allies are US across Pacific and Russia behind China. With China friendship is wisest; never a military alliance. The logic of balance of power.