Hegseth says US to boost ties with Philippines as deterrence against China

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced on Friday that the Trump administration is planning to strengthen military ties with the Philippines in order to enhance deterrence against Chinese aggression in the disputed South China Sea. This assurance was made during a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as part of Hegseth’s trip to Asia to reaffirm Washington’s commitment to the region under President Donald Trump’s administration.

During the meeting, Hegseth emphasized the importance of deterrence, especially in the face of threats from China. He stated, “Friends need to stand shoulder to shoulder to deter conflict, to ensure that there is free navigation in the South China Sea.” Hegseth commended the Philippines for standing firm in defending its interests in the contested waters and reiterated the concept of “peace through strength.”

China claims a large portion of the South China Sea, which is a crucial security and trade route. Several countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, have overlapping claims in the region. Tensions between Chinese and Philippine forces have escalated in recent years, with confrontations involving water cannons and dangerous maneuvers.

Hegseth reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines and praised the partnership between the two countries. President Marcos expressed his appreciation for the United States’ role in maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea.

The visit by Hegseth to the Philippines precedes the annual combat exercises between the two longtime allies, which will include live-fire drills. However, Hegseth’s visit comes at a time when he is facing calls for resignation back home due to a controversy involving the sharing of attack plans in a Signal group chat.

In conclusion, the United States’ commitment to bolstering military ties with the Philippines as a means of deterring Chinese aggression in the South China Sea underscores the importance of maintaining stability in the region. Hegseth’s visit serves as a reaffirmation of the strong partnership between the two countries in promoting peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.