STRESSING THAT WASHINGTON does not support aggression nor promote expansionist policies, the United States has declared its full backing on mutual economic vitality with the Philippines as well effort to modernize the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and related agencies to strengthen collective defense in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly the South China Sea (SCS).
“We do not seek confrontation, but we are and will be ready and resolute. We’re proud to support our mutual economic vitality, including your efforts to modernize your armed forces and collective defense,” US Defense Secretary Peter Brian Hegseth stated in his meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Pentagon.
‘Together, we must forge a strong shield of real deterrence for peace ensuring the long-term security and prosperity for our nations … (and) the importance of deepening ties as long-time allies since the Second World War and even before.’
Hegseth also pushed for the forging of “a strong shield of real deterrence” between Washington and Manila as he reaffirmed American defense aid for the Philippines and it’s support in the West Philippine Sea (WPS). China has been actively conducting incursive operations within Philippine territories which they claim, accordingly based on historical grounds and their sovereignty on areas within the 11-dash boundary Beijing created.
STRONGER TIES
“Together, we must forge a strong shield of real deterrence for peace ensuring the long-term security and prosperity for our nations.”
He also emphasized the importance of deepening ties as long-time allies since the Second World War and even before.
“And the United States is committed to achieving peace through strength and willing to work with all nations who share this desire in the region,” he added.
The US defense chief likewise reaffirmed US commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty with the Philippines, citing that “together, (the United States and the Philippines) remain committed to the Mutual Defense Agreement . . . and (that) this pact extends to armed attacks on (both) armed forces, aircraft, or public vessels including Coast Guards anywhere in the Pacific including the South China Sea.”