US, Philippines Strengthen Ties Amid China's Aggressive Actions

30 Jul, 2024

US, Philippines Strengthen Ties Amid China's Aggressive Actions

Washington's top diplomat and defense chief are in Manila to announce $500 million in military funding to boost Philippine defenses amid concerns over China's aggressive actions. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has emphasized the need for a US military presence for regional stability and peace. Following a violent faceoff between Filipino and Chinese forces in the South China Sea, a temporary agreement was reached to prevent future clashes. The US funding will include equipment for the Philippine navy and improvements to Philippine military bases under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.

Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel Romualdez, stated that the funding could double next year. Progress on the General Security of Military Information Agreement will also be discussed, which would allow the US to provide high-level intelligence and sophisticated weapons to the Philippines. This agreement is crucial for obtaining advanced weapons, as seen during the Marawi siege in 2017. Romualdez assured that US support for the Philippines would remain strong regardless of the next US president, with bipartisan support in Congress. Marcos approved expanded US military presence in the Philippines, drawing opposition from China, but emphasizing the need to safeguard territorial interests.