US confirms Defense chief Austin's visit to Philippines to meet with gov't, military leaders

The US government has confirmed the visit of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III to the Philippines.

"Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III will depart Jan. 29 for a trip to the Republic of Korea and the Philippines," the US Department of Defense said in an advisory issued on Thursday.

"During his visits, he will meet with senior government and military leaders in both countries to advance regional stability and further strengthen the defense partnerships with the United States," it added.

"This trip reaffirms the deep commitment of the United States to work in concert with allies and partners in support of the shared vision of preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific," the advisory read.

Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez on Thursday disclosed that Austin has been planning to visit the Philippines.

Romualdez said Austin wants to meet his Filipino counterpart, Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr., who was appointed to lead the Philippines' defense and security sector early this month.

"The main purpose is really to be able to again be able to interact with our defense establishments especially with our new Defense secretary," he said.

This also came after it was revealed that there has been a serious discussion between Manila and Washington on conducting joint patrols in the West Philippine Sea. —KG, GMA Integrated News