Philstar
First call: Trump defense chief reaffirms 'ironclad' commitment to the Philippines
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed an "ironclad commitment" to the Philippines during his first call with Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., discussing the need to bolster deterrence in the South China Sea.
The leaders also explored ways to enhance the capabilities and capacity of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
This conversation follows earlier engagements between Philippine officials and Trump administration representatives, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz.
The call underscored the importance of working with allies and partners to reestablish deterrence in the region.
The US and the Philippines maintain robust and enduring relationships across political, trade, and defense sectors.
Recent initiatives have included expanding access to Philippine military bases facing strategic areas and a significant pledge of foreign military financing from the US to support the Philippines' territorial defense and regional security contributions.
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Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth discussed strengthening deterrence in the South China Sea during a recent call.
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Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. had an introductory phone call with newly confirmed US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth on Thursday, February 6.
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