Washington, D.C. – House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce (R-CA) issued the following statement applauding Secretary Carter’s announcement that the United States will strengthen its military alliance with the Philippines:

“It is critical the U.S. support the Philippines as it works to establish peace and stability in the region and maintain vital trade routes.  That is why Secretary Carter’s announcement is welcome news.  Continuing joint training drills and upgrading the Philippines infrastructure will strengthen the U.S.-Philippines partnership, which will help ensure stability in the South China Sea.”

NOTE: In November, Chairman Royce, a longtime champion of the U.S.-Philippines partnership, applauded the decision to transfer the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter renamed the Gregorio del Pilar.

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