U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin condemned China's actions against the Philippines during his visit to the Philippine province of Palawan next to the disputed South China Sea. Austin reiterated the United States' commitment to defend its treaty ally in case of an armed attack. He expressed belief that the strong alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines will continue despite changes in administration.
Austin criticized China for using dangerous and escalatory measures to enforce its expansive maritime claims in the South China Sea. China has been involved in territorial disputes with several coastal states in the region, including Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei, and Taiwan.
The Biden administration has been strengthening military alliances in the Indo-Pacific region to counter China's influence. The U.S. has provided military funding to the Philippines, including support for intelligence-gathering and defense surveillance.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his commitment to strengthening the alliance with the U.S. during a conversation with the incoming President Donald Trump. Both countries signed an agreement to secure the exchange of highly confidential military intelligence and technology.
The agreement aims to enhance the Philippines' defense capabilities and provide access to more sophisticated weapons, including missile systems. It also includes provisions for U.S. satellite and drone surveillance systems to support Philippine military operations.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson in Beijing emphasized that military agreements should not target third parties or escalate regional tensions. The U.S. and the Philippines have reaffirmed their commitment to regional security and defense cooperation in the face of growing challenges in the South China Sea.
