US expresses support for PHL on Spratlys dispute

The United States on Tuesday expressed to the Philippines its full support on the regional dispute over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) and the Spratly Islands. "We, the US, are with the Philippines," US Ambassador Harry Thomas said in his speech during the launch of the National Renewable Energy Program in Makati. "The Philippines and the US are stretegic allies. We willl continue to consult and work with each other on all issues, including [the] South China Sea and Spratly Islands," he added. He further said that the two countries' "partnership grew stronger over the years." — RSJ, GMA News