MANILA - The United States threw its support for the Philippines claim on the highly contested Spratlys Islands located in the West Philippine Sea. U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas issued the declaration in his speech during the formal launch of the government's National Renewable Energy Program June 14 in Makati City. Thomas assured the Philippines of his country's support due to the strong bond between the two nations. “I assure you that on all subjects, the United States is with the Philippines. The Philippines and the United States are strategic allies. We are long standing treaty partners. We will continue to consult and work with each other on all issues, including the South China Sea and Spratlys,” Thomas said. ***