Honoring the 25th anniversary of the partnership between Guam and the Republic of the Philippines under the State Partnership Program.

119th Congress Introduced by Jim Moylan

Expresses non-binding support for continued and expanded Guam-Philippines State Partnership Program, boosting regional security cooperation between Guam, the AFP, and allies.

Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.

Overview

H.Res. 156 is a House of Representatives resolution honoring the 25th anniversary of the State Partnership Program (SPP) between Guam and the Republic of the Philippines. The measure expresses appreciation for defense cooperation and supports continued and expanded partnerships within the SPP framework. It is a non-binding, symbolic expression of sentiment and policy in favor of strengthened regional security cooperation.

Purpose and Intent

Recognize and celebrate two-and-a-half decades of cooperation between the Republic of the Philippines and Guam under the State Partnership Program.

Acknowledge the ongoing collaboration between the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Guam National Guard, and its role in promoting peace, stability, and mutual understanding.

Affirm ongoing support for the Guam–Philippines SPP and encourage broader regional security cooperation.

Key Provisions

The bill outlines six core points:
1. Recognition of the cooperative relationship between the Philippines and Guam, and the long-standing U.S.–Philippines partnership facilitated by the SPP.
2. Expression of appreciation for the AFP’s commitment to the Guam National Guard in advancing peace, stability, and mutual understanding.
3. Continued support for the Guam–Philippines SPP.
4. Commendation of the Philippines for increasing regional security cooperation, including efforts that may strengthen regional defense posture.
5. Highlighting the strengths of defense cooperation, capability development, and the 1951 U.S.–Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty.
6. Expression of support for potential SPP engagements between the Philippines and other U.S. states and territories to bolster the Guam–Philippines SPP.

Affected Parties and Impacts

Primary focus: Guam and the Republic of the Philippines, and their respective armed forces (Guam National Guard and the Armed Forces of the Philippines).

Broader implication: reinforces policymaker support for expanding or replicating SPP collaborations with other U.S. states and territories.

Note: As a resolution, the measure is non-binding and does not authorize new funding or create new obligations; it serves to express sentiment and set a political backdrop for future actions.

Procedural Status and Timeline

Introduced: February 24, 2025.

Referred to: Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on Armed Services, for a period to be determined by the Speaker. This indicates potential consideration by both committees on provisions within their jurisdiction.

No specific filing of amendments or funding provisions is described in the text provided.

Context and Implications

This resolution signals congressional support for the Guam–Philippines SPP and for broader Philippine defense cooperation in the region. While non-binding, it may influence foreign policy messaging, support for ongoing military collaboration, and discussions about expanding SPP partnerships with other U.S. states and territories.

Bill