U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will visit the Philippines on March 28-29 to discuss strengthening defense collaboration and addressing concerns related to China’s actions in the South China Sea. This visit signifies an affirmation of U.S. support for the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to visit the Philippines next week, marking the first leg of his inaugural trip to the Indo-Pacific. Although specific dates have not been provided, it is reported that he will be in Manila on March 28-29. The discussions will include strategies to deter aggression in the contested South China Sea, according to Philippine officials.

During his visit, Secretary Hegseth plans to engage with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Topics will encompass the increasingly assertive actions by China in the region and the proposed enhancement of support for Philippine security forces from the Trump administration, as stated by Philippine Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Manuel Romualdez.

Ambassador Romualdez highlighted that the visit symbolizes a robust message regarding U.S.-Philippines relations, emphasizing that it fosters strong bilateral ties against the backdrop of China’s territorial ambitions. China asserts dominance over almost the entirety of the South China Sea, a crucial area for global trade and security. Other nations, including Vietnam and Malaysia, also assert claims in these rich waters, yet tensions have frequently escalated between Chinese and Philippine forces.

In his initial call with Secretary Teodoro, Hegseth reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty established in 1951. This treaty supports maintaining security and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific region, according to Pentagon spokesperson John Ullyot, who shared details from the February 5 conversation.

The discussions included topics on strengthening deterrence within the South China Sea and boosting the capabilities of the Philippine armed forces. Following prior confrontations in the contested area, the Biden administration has underscored that the U.S. is duty-bound to assist the Philippines if its armed forces face attack in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea. Conversely, Beijing has cautioned Washington to abstain from interference in what it describes as a regional matter.

In conclusion, Secretary Hegseth’s forthcoming visit to the Philippines underscores the commitment of the United States to strengthen its ties with the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. The discussions will focus on enhancing defense cooperation and supporting regional security, reaffirming U.S. obligations under the Mutual Defense Treaty as China continues to assert its claims in the region.

Original Source: www.usnews.com

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