evidence: The Philippines has invoked its mutual defense treaty with the US to obtain US assistance in repelling Chinese forces from islands claimed by the Philippines. Signed in 1951, the treaty stipulates the two countries to defend each other in case of an attack from an external party. However, US does not include the Spratly Islands in its understanding of Philippine territory. Instead, the US limited itself in continuously supporting the Philippine defense programs with military and intelligence aid and training, and a variety of diplomatic measures aimed at sending a "strong message" to Beijing.[76] Such "strong messages" and the ASEAN intervention are believed to have calmed China's previously aggressive drive in the Spratly region. [...] - ^ a b "Territorial claims in the Spratly and Paracel Islands". Retrieved February 8, 2008.