The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday announced that the Philippines and Malaysia have reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering defense relations.

DND spokesperson Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong, in a statement, said this took place when Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. met with Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin on the sidelines of the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat held in Penang, Malaysia on Wednesday.

The two officials discussed key defense issues and pledged to enhance security cooperation between the two nations.

“During their discussions, both officials reaffirmed their commitment to bolstering defense relations, particularly in maritime security, counter-terrorism efforts, and capacity-building programs. They also welcomed cooperation in human capital development, particularly in cybersecurity, to strengthen resilience against malign influence and interference,” Andolong said.

During the meeting, Teodoro also thanked the Malaysian government for its swift response to the Philippines’ call for assistance during the six consecutive typhoons that struck the country late last year.

“The Philippine defense chief stressed that natural calamities are causing significant displacement, underscoring the urgency of continuously upgrading individual and collective humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities and capacities. He also highlighted the importance of regional groupings, like ASEAN, to facilitate rapid response in times of crisis,” Andolong added.

Amid territorial disputes between the Philippines and Malaysia, Teodoro emphasized that both nations continue to work together diplomatically and constructively, allowing them to engage in discussions on other critical issues.

The DND chief also reiterated the need to strengthen ties among ASEAN member states to ensure regional security and stability.

Both defense officials agreed on the importance of ASEAN nations supporting one another and expressed their commitment to exploring more opportunities for collaboration in the future.

Teodoro also thanked Nordin and the Malaysian government for the warm hospitality extended to him and the Philippine delegation.

“He emphasized the directive of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. to fully support Malaysia’s leadership in ASEAN this year,” Andolong said. (PNA)