Biden Reaffirms U.S. Defense Commitment To Philippines Amid China Tensions

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan speaks during a bilateral meeting with Philippines Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo at the Department of State in Washington, Friday April 1

The Biden administration reiterated its unwavering support for the Philippines' defense in the face of escalating Chinese provocations in the South China Sea. Following a trilateral summit involving the US, Japan, and the Philippines, officials from both countries met to discuss strategic and military matters.

The US Secretary of State, Defense Secretary, and national security adviser hosted their Philippine counterparts at the State Department, emphasizing the shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea. They reaffirmed the ironclad defense commitments under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

Philippine officials expressed determination to uphold their sovereign rights, particularly in the face of China's recent aggressive actions in the region. President Biden underscored the US's treaty obligations to its Pacific allies, stating that any attack on Philippine assets in the South China Sea would trigger the mutual defense treaty.

The trilateral summit was seen as a strong response to China's attempts at intimidation, with the US emphasizing its support for its allies in the region. The US-Philippines mutual defense treaty, in place for over 70 years, has been reinforced amid ongoing tensions between the Philippines and China.

Trilateral summit involving US, Japan, and Philippines discussed strategic and military matters.

US reiterated support for Philippines' defense against Chinese provocations.

US officials hosted Philippine counterparts, emphasizing commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Reaffirmation of ironclad defense commitments under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

Philippine officials determined to uphold sovereign rights against China's aggressive actions.

President Biden emphasized US treaty obligations to Pacific allies.

Trilateral summit seen as a strong response to China's intimidation tactics.

US-Philippines mutual defense treaty reinforced amid tensions with China.

China's 'gray-zone' harassment tactics in the South China Sea have raised concerns.

China's actions in the South China Sea, including confrontations with Philippine and Japanese vessels, have raised concerns. The so-called 'gray-zone' harassment tactics by China have led to clashes and disputes in the region.

Chinese officials have defended their actions, claiming sovereignty over disputed territories and accusing other countries of exacerbating tensions. They have criticized US involvement in the region and accused some countries of acting as pawns to contain China.

President Biden has prioritized improving relations with the Philippines since President Marcos took office, despite initial concerns over human rights issues under the previous administration. President Marcos, who initially sought closer ties with China, has shifted towards strengthening relations with the US amid growing apprehensions about China's behavior.