Muslim Tausug women
attending a pro-Balikatan
rally in Jolo, Sulu. (HADER GLANG)

Facts concerning U.S. service
members visiting the Philippines

RECENT reports in the Philippine media have raised issues regarding rules of behavior for members of the U.S. Armed Forces traveling to the Philippines to participate in the joint military exercise "Balikatan 06."

All U.S. military personnel participating in joint U.S.-Philippines military exercises and activities in the Philippines are made fully aware of Philippine culture and sensitivities and their obligation to obey Philippine law.

Orders to visiting U.S. military personnel regarding sexual conduct and prostitution are unequivocal: soliciting a prostitute is a crime and a violation of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the foundation of military law in the United States. Solicitation of prostitutes by any U.S. military personnel visiting the Philippines is strictly prohibited.

No liberty or annual leave is authorized to U.S. Armed Forces personnel participating in “Balikatan 06.”

General Order Number 1 for all U.S. military personnel participating in "Balikatan 06" joint exercise states, "Each participating American citizen is an informal ambassador in the Philippines, representing the United States. U.S. personnel will treat others with appropriate military courtesy whether on or off duty, in or out of uniform. U.S. personnel will be considerate of Philippine customs and will not engage in any behavior, wear any clothing or make any statement which may offend a Filipino."

Mutual respect and shared commitment to the protection of the national interests of our two nations is the foundation for the long-lived, excellent cooperation between Philippine and U.S. military and security forces.

During "Balikatan '06" and all such exercises, the U.S. will continue to assure that its service members obey Philippine law and respect Philippine dignity and sensitivities. (PRESS RELEASE)