The Philippines on Wednesday conferred the Philippine Legion of Honor on outgoing US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who was supportive of the Philippine proposal for a rules-based approach in the competing claims over the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea).

The honor was given in simple ceremonies at the US State Department in Washington, D.C. attended by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario.

In expressing appreciation for the honor, Clinton reaffirmed the US government’s commitment to strengthen the Philippines’ defense capabilities.

Clinton will be replaced by democrat Sen. John Kerry of Massachusetts.

As the United States ‘ top diplomat, Clinton signed the Manila Declaration, which confirmed the two countries’ commitment to the objectives of the Philippines-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

On the margins of the 2012 official working visit to the US of President Benigno Aquino 3rd, she also signed with del Rosario a statement of support for the construction, outfitting and training of a new National Coast Watch Center for the Philippines.

Clinton “strongly supported” the Philippines’ advocacy for a rules-based approach in resolving competing claims over maritime areas through peaceful and diplomatic processes within the framework of international law.

“On various occasions, she spoke up for the common interest in maintaining freedom of navigation, unimpeded lawful commerce and transit of people across the seas,” a statement from the Department of Foreign Affairs said.

In September 2010, Mr. Aquino and Clinton unveiled the $434-million Millennium Challenge Account Compact aimed at reducing poverty through economic growth in New York.

The Philippines and the US are also leading members of the Open Government Partnership, which continues to promote greater government transparency and the rule of law.

According to the department, the Philippine Legion of Honor is the highest honor that the president of the Philippines may grant an individual without the concurrence of Congress.

The highest rank, chief commander, is normally conferred on heads of state or governments and distinguished individuals in recognition of their importance to the country or for life achievement.

A posthumous rank of chief commander was awarded to former US president Franklin Roosevelt.
He was the first American to be conferred the rank.

Other Americans who have received the same honor include former president Dwight Eisenhower, Gen. Douglas McArthur and the late sen. Daniel Inouye.