The Philippines calls for strengthening military ties with the U.S. amid rising tensions in the South China Sea
In Southeast Asia, the regional security landscape is increasingly strained as military cooperation between the Philippines and the United States intensifies amidst ongoing disputes in the South China Sea.
A senior Philippine defense official has emphasized the need to deepen military partnerships with the U.S.
to counter China’s expanding influence in this strategically vital area.
According to Defense Minister Gilberto Teodoro Jr., both nations must adopt a more restrained approach, focusing on their shared security challenges as incidents involving ships near the disputed reef continue to escalate.
The meeting with U.S.
Secretary of Defense Peter Gagset in Kuala Lumpur, held during the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Summit, culminated in the announcement of a new joint working group aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation.
Tensions in the region remain high due to confrontations between Filipino and Chinese vessels in the South China Sea, where disputes over territorial claims often turn violent.
Chinese coast guard ships have employed water cannons and ramming tactics against smaller Filipino vessels, increasing violence at sea.
Recently, China confirmed plans to establish a national nature reserve at the contested reef, sparking criticism from the U.S., which has a mutual defense agreement with the Philippines.
Manila, along with allies such as Japan and the United States, conducted joint exercises in the disputed waters, warning China against provocative actions.
Defense Minister Teodoro expressed hope for concluding negotiations with France on a status of forces agreement next year and is optimistic that talks with the UK will commence soon.
The Philippines are actively expanding their security partnerships beyond the U.S., signing military accords with Japan and New Zealand to counter China’s territorial ambitions.
Teodoro underscored the importance of China demonstrating adherence to international laws to foster regional stability.
Meanwhile, concerns are mounting over Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent remarks suggesting the country could be drawn into potential conflicts between China and the U.S.
over Taiwan, further aggravating tensions in the region.