The United States and the Philippines have reaffirmed their treaty alliance and committed to deeper military and economic collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. Senior officials gathered in Manila for the 12th Philippines-United States Bilateral Strategic Dialogue, commemorating 80 years of diplomatic ties and the 75th anniversary of their Alliance. The Philippines, currently the ASEAN Chair, hosted the discussions.
The dialogue, initiated in 2011, serves as an annual platform for the two nations to address political, security, and economic cooperation. Both sides emphasized their dedication to a free, open, prosperous, and secure Indo-Pacific, respecting sovereignty, international law, and peaceful conflict resolution. They also pledged to uphold a vigilant stance in the region to prevent conflicts and ensure open sea lanes.
In a joint statement, the US and the Philippines reiterated their commitment to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, extending protection against armed attacks to each other’s armed forces, aircraft, and public vessels in the Pacific, including the South China Sea. They condemned China’s activities in the South China Sea as illegal, coercive, and destabilizing, emphasizing the importance of freedom of navigation and lawful sea usage for all nations.
The two governments agreed to enhance joint capabilities, cyber defense cooperation, and maritime dialogues. Economic security was a focal point, with discussions on boosting private sector development in various sectors and establishing secure critical minerals supply chains. The US pledged support for health security and civil nuclear cooperation in the Philippines, emphasizing nuclear safety and nonproliferation standards.
Both nations also discussed combating cybercrime, online scams, illicit drugs, and terrorism. They reaffirmed the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposed any threats to territorial integrity or political independence. The US-Philippines alliance, particularly in the context of rising tensions in the South China Sea, is closely monitored by Indo-Pacific partners like India for its implications on regional stability and security.
