Philippines–South Vietnam relations

The Philippines–South Vietnam relations refers to the connections between the Republic of the Philippines and the Republic of Vietnam, which no longer exists. During a difficult time called the Vietnam War, the Philippines supported South Vietnam. The Philippines helped by giving humanitarian aid, showing friendship and support during a challenging period. These relations were important for both countries as they worked together during a time of conflict.

History

The people of the Philippines and Vietnam had a history of trading by sea before both countries were ruled by Western powers. After both countries became independent, the Philippines, under President Ramon Magsaysay, made official contact with South Vietnam in 1954. During the late 1950s, South Vietnam's president, Ngo Dinh Diem, asked for recognition from Asian countries, including the Philippines. President Magsaysay recognized South Vietnam on July 14, 1955. In 1959, President Carlos P. Garcia signed a Treaty of Friendship with South Vietnam.

Philippine involvement in the Vietnam War

Some Filipino medics went to South Vietnam to help during the Vietnam War starting in 1954. This effort was called Operation Brotherhood and had support from many countries to aid Vietnamese refugees.

In 1964, South Vietnam asked the Philippines for help in the war. The first group of Filipinos, called PHILCON I, arrived in 1965. They were doctors, nurses, and other helpers. Though their main job was to give aid, they also helped in other ways.

By the end of 1966, the Philippines had over 2,000 people in South Vietnam. The Philippines started bringing its troops home in 1969, and by 1973, all had returned. Official ties with Vietnam began again in 1976 after the country became unified.

Rescue of USS Kirk-escorted refugee

In 1975, the Philippines helped 30,000 Vietnamese refugees on ships from the South Vietnamese Navy escorted by the USS Kirk. The Philippine government agreed to help after the United States changed the flags on the ships. These ships later became part of the Philippine Navy.

Economic relations

Filipino businessmen started projects to help South Vietnam during the war. Many Filipino workers went to South Vietnam to find jobs. Some worked for American construction companies, while others found jobs in night clubs and bars where American soldiers often visited.

Diplomatic mission and visits

In October 1955, the Philippines opened a temporary office in Saigon. On December 1, the permanent office was opened at 1 Rue Aux Fluera, with Amb. Mariano Espeleta leading the mission. South Vietnam also set up an embassy in Manila with Chief Minister Cao Thai Bao in charge. South Vietnamese President Ngo Dinh Diem visited the Philippines in the late 1950s, and Philippine President Carlos P. Garcia visited South Vietnam from April 22 to 26, 1959.

By early 1975, the staff at the Philippine Embassy was reduced to only essential workers. The embassy closed permanently on April 29, 1975, the day before Saigon fell to the North Vietnamese forces. Amb. Agustin Mangila and his two remaining staff members were evacuated during Operation Frequent Wind.

Territorial dispute

South Vietnam and the Philippines both claimed the Spratly Islands. Even though they were allies during the Vietnam War, South Vietnam took control of Southwest Cay in 1975. Filipino soldiers had left Southwest Cay for a celebration and could not return because of a storm. During this time, South Vietnam took control of the island. Later, when South Vietnam no longer existed, Communist Vietnamese forces took over the island.