In a recent news conference in Baguio, Philippines, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command chief Adm. Samuel Paparo addressed the escalating tensions in the disputed South China Sea. Adm. Paparo stated that American forces are prepared with a range of options to address acts of aggression in the region, pending joint orders and consultations with treaty ally the Philippines.
While Adm. Paparo did not disclose specific details of the contingency options, he emphasized the readiness of USINDOPACOM to act in alignment with the Mutual Defense Treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines. The treaty obligates both countries to support each other in the event of an armed external attack.
