This book focuses on the current state of the United States and the Republic of the Philippines relations. The U.S. and Philippines maintain close ties based upon historical relations, common interests, shared values, and the large Filipino-American population. Major U.S. policy objectives in the Philippines include bolstering the Philippines as a strong U.S. ally in Southeast Asia, assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in counterterrorism efforts, supporting the peace process in Mindanao, as well as helping the AFP to modernize its equipment and adhere to democratic principles and providing assistance for political and economic development.