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U.S. Reaffirms Defense Commitment to Philippines Amidst South China Sea Tensions
MANILA, Philippines – The United States has reiterated its unwavering dedication to its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines, pledging to deploy advanced military capabilities to bolster its ally’s defenses against perceived threats in the South China Sea, particularly those attributed to Chinese assertiveness. This renewed pledge underscores the strong alliance between Washington and Manila amidst growing regional security concerns.
U.S. Defense Secretary Meets with Philippine Leaders
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth engaged in discussions with Philippine Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., signaling continued robust cooperation amidst escalating tensions with China. Both sides emphasized their shared objective of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, with a specific focus on the South China Sea, where Manila has repeatedly accused Beijing of aggressive actions.
Deterrence Against “Communist Chinese” Threats
Secretary Hegseth asserted the necessity of deterrence, particularly in the Philippines, given the perceived threats emanating from “communist Chinese” activities in the region. He stated, “Deterrence is necessary around the world, but specifically in this region, in your country, considering the threats from the communist Chinese.”
U.S. Seeks Peace Through Strength
Despite the commitment to strengthening defenses, Hegseth clarified that the United States was not seeking conflict, portraying President Donald Trump as a figure who prioritizes peace. “President Trump seeks peace… but in order to bring that peace, we will be strong,” he stated during a joint press conference with Minister Teodoro. He further emphasized U.S. military readiness, stating, “Our allies will know we stand with them. Our admirals are prepared, and they will be properly equipped. We’re rebuilding our military under President Trump.”
China Accuses U.S. of Provocation and Discord
Beijing has dismissed concerns regarding freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and accused the United States of “instigating ideological confrontation” and “sowing discord” in the region. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated during a press briefing that, “All along, it is the U.S. side that has been indulging its allies in provocations in the South China Sea, and it is the U.S. side that has repeatedly fabricated false propositions about China’s threat to freedom… in the South China Sea.” China also cautioned the Philippines against aligning with the U.S. and provoking military conflict.
Hegseth Sidesteps Questions on Leaked Documents
Secretary Hegseth’s Asia trip, commencing in the Philippines, has been partly overshadowed by recent revelations concerning sensitive attack plans against Houthi militants in Yemen being shared on a commercial messaging application. When questioned about the incident involving the Signal app, Hegseth avoided a direct response, stating his focus remained on ensuring the defense department’s preparedness.
U.S. to Deploy Advanced Military Assets to Philippines
The U.S. Defense Secretary announced the deployment of additional advanced military capabilities to the Philippines. This includes the NMESIS anti-ship missile system and unmanned surface vehicles, described by Hegseth as “highly capable,” aimed at enhancing the Philippines’ maritime defense capabilities.
Bilateral Special Forces Training near Taiwan
Furthermore, both nations agreed to conduct bilateral special forces training exercises on the Batanes Islands, the Philippines’ northernmost islands situated close to Taiwan. Hegseth emphasized the deepening alliance, stating, “Our partnership not only continues today, but we are doubling down on that partnership, and our ironclad alliance has never been stronger.”
Philippine President Welcomes U.S. Support
President Marcos affirmed his commitment to close collaboration with Washington to preserve regional stability, viewing Hegseth’s visit as a clear indication of U.S. support for its treaty ally. He stated, “It sends a very strong message of the commitment of both our countries to continue to work together to maintain the peace in the Indo-Pacific region within the South China Sea.”
Background of South China Sea Tensions
The meeting occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the Philippines and a growingly powerful China over contested islands in the South China Sea, where frequent maritime incidents have occurred between the two countries.
China Warns Against Undermining Regional Security
Prior to Secretary Hegseth’s arrival, Chinese defense ministry spokesman Wu Qian cautioned that military cooperation between the U.S. and the Philippines should not compromise the security interests of other nations. Wu Qian, speaking at a press briefing in Beijing on Thursday, also remarked on the U.S.’s historical reliability as an ally, stating, “Throughout history, the U.S. has maintained an eye-popping record of breaking its promises and turning its back on its allies.”