AMBASSADOR MaryKay Carlson has emphasized the need for robust relationship between the United States and the Philippines in security and economic aspects during the closing ceremony for Exercise Balikatan 2024.

“As we have heard both President Marcos and President Biden say, security and economic prosperity are inextricably linked – and nowhere is that more apparent than in the vitally important Indo-Pacific region,” Carlson said.

“Exercise Balikatan stands as proof of our collective commitment to enhancing interoperability in support of long-term prosperity not only for participant nations, but for the world,” she added.

The following is the full text of her message:

“Magandang umaga!  Good morning!  Secretary Teodoro, all esteemed guests here today, it is an honor to address you as we bring this year’s Exercise Balikatan to a close.

“Over the past three weeks, nearly 12,000 of you – including participants from Australia and France and observers from 14 like-minded nations – took part in impressive training activities across core military functions, fostering robust relationships and deepening expertise.  This exercise has taken you everywhere – on land, at sea, in the air, and through cyberspace.

“As we have heard both President Marcos and President Biden say, security and economic prosperity are inextricably linked – and nowhere is that more apparent than in the vitally important Indo-Pacific region.  Exercise Balikatan stands as proof of our collective commitment to enhancing interoperability in support of long-term prosperity not only for participant nations, but for the world.

“Two days ago, I had the honor of joining President Marcos and our military leadership teams at the Combined Coordination Center – Triple C – to watch U.S. and Philippine forces execute a complex live-fire event that demonstrated our alliance’s capability to enforce our mutual defense requirements.  That was a highlight for me – not just of my tenure here as Ambassador, but of my 39-year career.  I’m also proud of numerous images showcasing Balikatan participants engaging in a wide range of knowledge and expertise sharing exercises from tactical operations to strategic maneuvers. 

“Also of great importance were the opportunities for service members to come together with Filipino communities, sharing meals, and engaging in competitive sports, such as basketball.  These moments of camaraderie and goodwill extend far beyond military activities.  They demonstrate for all to see the strong, meaningful people-to-people ties that form the basis of our steadfast friendship and undergird our longstanding, ironclad alliance.

“As we bring this year’s exercise to a close, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to all.   I know that our service members, especially those experiencing the Philippines for the first time, depart enriched from this remarkable experience.

“Maraming, maraming salamat sa inyong lahat, at mabuhay!” 