New counterterrorism training center to boost U.S.-PHL, regional cooperation

Manila — As part of our deepening bilateral counterterrorism partnership, the U.S. and Philippine governments have agreed to establish a new state of the art Regional Counterterrorism Training Center in the Philippines.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Oscar D. Albayalde and Deputy Chief of Mission John C. Law signed on Thursday a Memorandum of Understanding to construct and operate the center on the grounds of the PNP Academy in Silang, Cavite.  The U.S. Department of State has secured Php 520 million ($10 million) in counterterrorism partnership funds to establish and jointly operate the center with the PNP.

Once constructed, the center will provide counterterrorism training for law enforcement units and personnel from the Philippines and regional partner nations.

The initiative comes in response to a request from the PNP for a state of the art facility to provide enhanced regional counterterrorism training.  The establishment of this center reflects the U.S.’ enduring commitment to support Philippine counterterrorism efforts and work together to address threats to peace and security in the region.