Manila: The United States is launching a PHP30.8-million law enforcement training program to help the Philippines deter terrorist threats against Americans and Filipinos. The initiative was formalized with the signing of an agreement between the U.S. Embassy in Manila and the Zamboanga del Sur provincial government in a ceremony on July 30.

According to Philippines News Agency, the U.S. Department of State's Antiterrorism Assistance (ATA) program will provide permanent and dedicated training facilities in Pagadian City to host recurring specialized training courses for the Philippine National Police (PNP). "This investment in Pagadian reflects our confidence in the PNP and our conviction that a safer, more capable PNP means a safer Philippines, a safer United States, and a stronger Alliance between our two nations," said US Embassy Acting Senior Regional Security Officer Daniel Art.

Zamboanga del Sur Gov. Divina Grace Yu highlighted the initiative as a step towards enhancing the capabilities of Filipino law enforcers, particularly in Mindanao. "This partnership will enhance the capabilities of our law enforcers in deterring and preventing acts of terrorism. It will strengthen the security and stability of our government not only in the province of Zamboanga del Sur but most especially in Mindanao and even the whole country," she said.

The U.S. has been facilitating ATA courses for more than 10,000 Filipino law enforcement personnel since 2006. An estimated 2,000 PNP, as well as other law enforcement personnel, are expected to train at these new facilities in Pagadian every year. The U.S. Embassy in Manila noted that the investment is aligned with the two nations' aim to further secure their relations as they mark 80 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.