US defense sec reaffirms commitment to PHL alliance

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington's "ironclad commitment" to its alliance with the Philippines during a courtesy call to President Marcos, conveying greetings from President Trump.

The visit aimed to discuss strengthening the Armed Forces of the Philippines, inter-operability, and taking "bold steps" to reestablish deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Hegseth arrived in Manila late Thursday and will remain until Saturday to discuss crucial matters, including America's security objectives and enhanced military cooperation.

House Speaker Martin Romualdez stated that the visit assures continued robust defense and security alliance amid rising geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea.

Romualdez stressed that the visit indicates continued solid defense support from America at a "critical time" due to regional aggression and disputes with China over the West Philippine Sea.

The high-level discussions reflect a unified vision to fortify defense cooperation and preserve freedom of navigation and respect for international norms.

Both nations agreed to improve Manila's domestic defense industry and will use an American anti-ship missile launcher for the first time in bilateral military drills.