US ready to help PH secure EEZ if asked

The US government is prepared to assist the Philippines if Manila requests help in removing foreign vessels from its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) in the West Philippine Sea.

Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez said the US and Philippine navies are working together to ensure freedom of navigation and adherence to a code of conduct.

Romualdez noted that while the US is waiting for the Philippines to seek assistance, both countries' defense departments have been in communication and the US has deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the South China Sea.