PH hopes to get more US support in improving Coast Guard, Armed Forces

The Philippines is hoping to acquire more aid from the United States when it comes to improving the capabilities of the country's military sector and the Philippine Coast Guard, according to an official from the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA).

''Well, in the agenda of the meetings, there’s going to be an exchange of views on regional issues and concerns. So, ultimately, this issue on the West Philippine Sea would be discussed,'' DFA Assistant Secretary Raquel Solano said in a briefing.

''And as to the possible agreements, well, we are hoping to secure the assistance or support of the US government in enhancing the capabilities of our AFP and the Coast Guard, in terms of the capabilities of our armed forces,'' she added.

Marcos has since developed closer military and defense ties with the US to strengthen the country's external defense.

To recall, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in a visit to Manila also reaffirmed the Trump administration's "iron-clad" commitment to its obligations under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, which obliges the allies to help defend one another in case of an external attack.

Marcos will be leaving Manila for Washington on Sunday, July 20.

The cabinet secretaries who will join Marcos include Secretary of Foreign Affairs Maria Theresa Lazaro, Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr., Secretary of Trade and Investments Christina Roque, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Acting Presidential Communications Office Secretary Dave Gomez, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, and Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez. — BAP, GMA Integrated News