Terrorism talks
Philippines defence agreement possible

By Cpl Cameron Jamieson

AUSTRALIA and the Philippines are negotiating a Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) that will enable the ADF to improve its defence cooperation with the Philippines.

The Philippines’ constitution limits the scope under which foreign troops can work within its borders. The signing of a SOFA would provide the legal framework that would allow broader military-to-military cooperation to occur through Australia’s Defence Cooperation Program.

Areas of assistance being considered by Australia are the development of the AFP’s counter terrorism and maritime surveillance capabilities.

The Philippines has also asked for assistance in acquiring a small-boat capability to patrol the marshes in Mindanao.

During a recent visit to the Philippines, Defence Minister Robert Hill said the country was an important strategic partner for Australia in the fight against terrorism.

“It is important that we help the Philippines continue to build its armed forces to better protect the south from terrorist groups looking to grow their support base and establish training camps and links within the region,” Senator Hill said.

He said a major concern for both the Philippines and Australia was the potential for terrorist organisations such as Jemaah Islamiah to exploit the remoteness of the riverine and marshland areas of the southern island of Mindanao. “We can only defeat terrorism in the region by working cooperatively together. That’s why we want to work more closely and more effectively with the Philippines – to reduce the threat to the Philippines and the threat to us,” he said.