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Hegseth visit to boost PH-US military ties amid regional tensions — PH envoy
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will visit Manila from March 28 to 29, 2025, to meet with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The visit aims to enhance defense ties between the Philippines and the US, focusing on new policies from US President Donald Trump that bolster military relations and deterrence.
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez stated that Hegseth's visit exemplifies the US's commitment and that discussions will be serious, emphasizing the need to bolster the Armed Forces and enhance interoperability.
Romualdez also indicated that Hegseth will convey messages from President Trump to President Marcos.
While specific details are undisclosed, including potential discussions on the deployment of a second Medium Range Capability (MRC) Typhon missile system, the upcoming U.S.-Philippines Balikatan exercises in April and May 2025 are confirmed topics.
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US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth will visit the Philippines from March 28-29 as part of his Asia tour, which includes stops in Hawaii, Guam, and Japan.
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