Resolution of Crisis in the Philippines

The United States is pleased that the incident in Manila over the weekend, in which approximately 300 members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines occupied an apartment building and precipitated an armed-standoff with the Government of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, ended peacefully with no loss of life.

We understand that President Arroyo has announced investigations regarding the circumstances of the incident and the allegations of the dissident troops.

We support President Arroyo's handling of the crisis, which demonstrated that the Government of the Philippines is committed to the rule of law and the democratic process. No one should be under any doubt that we support the legitimate, civilian government of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

As President Bush stated during the State Visit of President Arroyo: "The relationship between the Philippines and the United States is stronger today than at any time in our recent history." President Arroyo's leadership during the crisis indicates once more that U.S. support for the Philippine Government is well placed.

We expect that the persons responsible for creating this crisis will be held accountable. At the same time, we applaud President Arroyo's willingness to examine the grievances raised by the dissident soldiers during this incident.