21-11-2024 (MANILA) The United States has established a dedicated military task force to support Philippine operations in the South China Sea, marking a significant advancement in the two nations’ defence cooperation amid rising regional tensions.
Task Force-Ayungin, named after the Philippine designation for the disputed Second Thomas Shoal, was revealed during U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s recent visit to Manila. The initiative primarily focuses on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support, according to Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano.
U.S. Embassy spokesperson Kanishka Gangopadhyay confirmed that the task force aims to enhance alliance coordination and interoperability between American and Philippine forces in the strategic waterway. However, Philippine officials emphasised that actual operations, including resupply missions to troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, remain exclusively under Manila’s control.
The development comes amid escalating tensions between Manila and Beijing over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Recent months have seen multiple confrontations near the Second Thomas Shoal, where Philippine troops maintain a presence aboard the Sierra Madre, a deliberately grounded warship that has served as a military outpost for 25 years.
China has repeatedly challenged Philippine presence in the area, claiming sovereignty over the reef despite it being located just 200 kilometres from Philippine shores and 1,300 kilometres from mainland China. Beijing’s coast guard has been accused of aggressive tactics, including ramming vessels and using water cannons against Philippine boats.
The strengthened U.S.-Philippine defence relationship has drawn criticism from Beijing, which views American involvement as unwanted interference in regional affairs. The United States maintains that it has legitimate interests in preserving freedom of navigation in waters that facilitate over $3 trillion in annual trade.
While recent diplomatic efforts have resulted in a “provisional arrangement” between Manila and Beijing regarding resupply missions, the establishment of Task Force-Ayungin underscores Washington’s commitment to supporting its Southeast Asian ally.
