US Reaffirms "Ironclad" Commitment to Philippines Defense

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed the United States' unwavering commitment to its decades-old defense treaty with the Philippines during a visit to Manila on Friday, pledging to bolster the alliance with advanced military capabilities in the face of increasing tensions with China.

Meeting with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Hegseth underscored Washington’s support for its Indo-Pacific ally, particularly as Manila continues to accuse Beijing of aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

“Deterrence is necessary around the world, but specifically in this region, in your country, considering the threats from the communist Chinese,” Hegseth said during a joint press conference with Teodoro. He emphasized that while the U.S. is not seeking conflict, it is committed to peace through strength, describing former President Donald Trump as a “peacemaker.”

“President Trump seeks peace ... but in order to bring that peace, we will be strong,” he said. “Our allies will know we stand with them. Our admirals are prepared, and they will be properly equipped. We're rebuilding our military under President Trump.”

Beijing, in turn, pushed back strongly against the remarks. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused Washington of stoking ideological tensions and provoking instability