U.S., Zamboanga del Sur launch counterterrorism training hub

PAGADIAN CITY — The U.S. Embassy in the Philippines and the Zamboanga del Sur provincial government signed an agreement establishing a PHP 30.8 million, or USD 500,000, law enforcement training program in Pagadian City.

The initiative demonstrates the United States’ commitment to working with the Philippines to deter terrorist threats against Americans and Filipinos.

Under the agreement, the U.S. Department of State’s Antiterrorism Assistance program will establish permanent, dedicated facilities for recurring specialized training courses for the Philippine National Police.

“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 Daniel Art, the U.S. Embassy’s acting senior regional security officer.

Since 2006, the United States has facilitated Antiterrorism Assistance courses for more than 10,000 Filipino law enforcement personnel.

The courses have helped participants improve their ability to investigate, respond to, and mitigate terrorist threats and incidents.

An estimated 2,000 PNP officers and other law enforcement personnel are expected to train at the new facilities each year.

“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,” Zamboanga del Sur Gov. Divina Grace Yu said.

The agreement comes as the United States and the Philippines commemorate the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026.

The two countries formally established diplomatic relations in 1946, while their security alliance is anchored in the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty.

U.S. officials said the expanded partnership would strengthen law enforcement cooperation and help secure bilateral ties in the years ahead.