US Defense Sec visits Manila to boost ties, discuss South China Sea
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will visit Manila on March 28 as part of his broader engagements across the Indo-Pacific region under the Trump administration.
During his two-day trip to the Philippines, Hegseth is expected to meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and discuss Beijing's aggressive actions in the South China Sea, explore potential increased support for military equipment purchases, and strengthen bilateral defense ties.
Hegseth will also visit Hawaii and Guam before Manila where he will tour military facilities and discuss security objectives with US and Philippine forces.
Following his visit to Manila, Hegseth is scheduled to travel to Japan to participate in the 80th anniversary commemoration of the Battle of Iwo Jima.
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