The Trump administration has reiterated its “ironclad” support for the Philippines amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo assured the Philippines of America’s unwavering commitment during a joint press conference with Philippine officials in Manila on Monday.
This pledge follows a series of confrontations between Chinese and Philippine vessels in disputed waters, including a near-collision last week near the Second Thomas Shoal. Pompeo reaffirmed that any attack on Philippine forces would invoke the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, a cornerstone of their decades-long alliance.
“The United States stands resolutely with our Philippine allies,” Pompeo declared, urging an end to China’s “provocative actions” in the region.
Philippine Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana welcomed the assurance, calling the U.S. a “steadfast partner” in safeguarding regional security. However, China dismissed the statement, reiterating its call for bilateral talks and opposing what it described as U.S. interference in regional matters.
Analysts say the U.S. is seeking to bolster alliances in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s growing influence. Joint military drills between the U.S. and the Philippines are planned for later this year, underscoring the strategic importance of their partnership.
