US supports PH military modernization efforts

The United States has reiterated its support for the efforts of the Philippine government to modernize its military.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also pushed for the forging of “a strong shield of real deterrence” between the two countries.

“We do not seek confrontation, but we are and will be ready and resolute. We're proud to support our mutual economic vitality, including your efforts to modernize your armed forces and collective defense,” Hegseth said in a meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Pentagon on Monday.

Marcos is on official visit to Washington D.C. and is also scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Tuesday.

In his opening remark, Hegseth talked about further deepening the ties between the two nations.

"Together, we must forge a strong shield of real deterrence for peace ensuring the long-term security and prosperity for our nations,” he said.

Marcos was accompanied by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, National Security Adviser Eduardo Año and Frederick Go, Special Assistant to the President for Investment and Economic Affairs.

“And the United States is committed to achieving peace through strength and willing to work with all nations who share this desire in the region,” Hegseth added.

The US Defense Secretary also reaffirmed his commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty between the US and the Philippines.

“And together we remained committed to the Mutual Defense Agreement. And this pact extends to armed attacks on our armed forces, aircraft, or public vessels including our Coast Guards anywhere in the Pacific including the South China Sea,” Hegseth said.

For his part, Marcos thanked the US government for its support.

The Philippine President also mentioned that the partnership between the two countries has helped  bring stability in the South China Sea.

“Again, I believe that our alliance, the United States and the Philippines, had formed a great part in terms of preserving the peace, in terms of preserving the stability of the South China Sea. But I would even go as far as to say in the entire Indo-Pacific region,” Marcos said. — BAP/KG, GMA Integrated News