Marcos Jr., US Defense Sec Austin reaffirm MDT

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. met with US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, reaffirming the US commitment to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty.

Austin assured Marcos that the US will support the Philippines in the South China Sea, stating the treaty covers armed attacks on Philippine forces, vessels, and aircraft in the region.

This commitment extends to respective Coast Guards in the Pacific, including anywhere in the South China Sea, based on the Bilateral Defense Guidelines established by both defense chiefs.

He emphasized that the US will always have the Philippines' back, calling the nation an indispensable friend and ally, and stating they are "more than allies, we're family."

The meeting underscored a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific, emphasizing a rules-based order for regional security and prosperity.

Discussions also included strengthening their alliance, particularly with the addition of new Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in Northern Luzon and Palawan.

Both leaders also discussed coordinating more closely with like-minded nations, including Australia and Japan, to strengthen shared principles.