Marcos: PH-US alliance contributes to stability in South China Sea, Indo-Pacific

President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. has expressed belief that the Philippines' ties with the United States had contributed in preserving peace and stability in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region.

Marcos made the remark during his meeting with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as part of his official visit to the United States.

“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. 

Marcos also underscored the need for continued bilateral discussions amid rapidly shifting geopolitical dynamics.

The Philippine leader appreciated the ongoing support of the US government through joint military exercises and the continued modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“That forms a very, very important part of that relationship. And again, it is a proper response considering the challenges that we face in the Philippines specifically vis-à-vis the changing geopolitical forces and the political developments around our part of the world,” Marcos said.

Marcos also recalled Hegseth’s visit to Manila in March of this year, describing it as an “important symbol” of the enduring partnership between the two nations and a reaffirmation of their commitment to the Mutual Defense Treaty.

“We must continue to be in discussion. We must continue to evolve that relationship as the circumstances, the context in which we operate has evolved,” Marcos said. 

During his visit at the Pentagon, Marcos was accompanied by Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, Presidential Adviser for Investment and Economic Affairs Frederick Go, Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, and Defense Undersecretary Salvador Melchor Mison Jr., who oversees acquisition and resource management.

Marcos was accorded an enhanced honor cordon upon arrival at the Pentagon, which is a ceremonial welcome reserved for high-ranking foreign dignitaries and military leaders. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News