Publication

This report analyzes US relations with the Philippines and the US interests at stake. These two states maintain close ties stemming from the US colonial period and subsequent projects/events. Broad US policy objectives include maintaining the bilateral alliance, enhancing security and stability in the South China Sea, assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines in counter-terrorism, maritime, modernization, and administrative reform efforts. The US also has invested interest in supporting the peace process in Muslim areas of Mindanao, promoting broad-based economic growth, and helping the Philippines to develop more stable and responsive democratic institutions.