US Secretary of State Antony Blinken praises the significant growth in defence cooperation with the Philippines, reaffirming the US commitment to protect the Philippines against aggression in the South China Sea. Blinken’s visit to Manila highlights US support for regional allies.
Amidst China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, Blinken’s visit aims to reinforce solidarity with the Philippines, particularly following recent incidents involving Philippine and Chinese vessels.
Blinken emphasises the security and economic interests of the Philippines, stressing the region’s strategic significance while reaffirming the United States’ commitment to safeguarding its allies by establishing mutual defence treaties. However, China disapproves of American intervention in the South China Sea and asserts that it lacks jurisdiction over maritime disputes.
Blinken’s current visit precedes a trilateral summit in Washington involving US President Joe Biden, President Marcos, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, focusing on promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. During the visit, Blinken is expected to reassure
Marcos continued US security commitments, particularly regarding potential armed attacks against Philippine assets, invoking the 1951 US-Philippines mutual defence treaty. Marcos has expressed concern over recent tensions with China, prompting diplomatic exchanges between Manila and Beijing.
