19-3-2024 (MANILA) In the midst of escalating tensions in the region, the top diplomats of the Philippines and the United States underscored the imperative of maintaining and bolstering their cooperation.
During a joint press conference on Tuesday, Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Secretary Enrique Manalo highlighted the intensive efforts in recent years to deepen engagements across various issues and sectors between the two nations. “The challenge now is how to sustain and further elevate our alliance and partnership,” remarked Manalo.
US State Secretary Antony Blinken, currently in Manila for discussions with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., echoed Manalo’s sentiments. Blinken’s visit precedes a pivotal three-way summit in Washington next month, involving US President Joe Biden, Marcos, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
Describing the expansion of partnership between the Philippines and the US as “extraordinary,” Blinken emphasized the need to not only uphold but also accelerate the momentum of their alliance. “The alliance has never been stronger,” affirmed Blinken.
Addressing shared concerns regarding China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in the South China Sea and the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone, Blinken underscored their significance to regional security and stability. He reiterated the critical role of these waterways not only for the Philippines but also for the broader interests of the region, the US, and the international community.
Relations between Manila and Beijing have faced strains in recent times, exacerbated by incidents involving Philippine and Chinese vessels in the West Philippine Sea, including collisions and the firing of water cannons.
Emphasizing the steadfastness of the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) between the Philippines and the US, Blinken reaffirmed its “ironclad” commitment. He clarified that the MDT extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft, encompassing incidents anywhere in the South China Sea.
