Best of Friends

MONEY
American military assistance to the Philippines has jumped from $38 million in 2001 to $114 million this year—making it the fourth largest recipient of U.S. military aid. Last week President Bush promised development money for the southern island of Mindanao if a peace pact can be secured between Manila and the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front

WEAPONRY
Since 2001, the U.S. has provided the Philippine military with 45,000 M-16 assault rifles, 333 heavy trucks, five "Huey" helicopters, several coastal-patrol vessels and a C-130 military transport aircraft. During his visit to Manila, Bush reiterated a promise to deliver 20 refurbished military helicopters

POLITICAL SUPPORT
Bush has lavishly praised President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, has supported her stand against local terrorist groups and has hosted her at the White House—all part of a bid to help boost his ally's chances of re-election next May

TRAINING
The U.S. has pledged to help overhaul the country's military. The Philippine constitution bars U.S. troops from engaging in combat unless fired upon, but about 300 U.S. soldiers are providing counterterrorism training to Filipino troops fighting Muslim separatists in Mindanao