On July 21, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. to discuss the defense relationship between the United States and the Philippines. The meeting focused on accelerating cooperation and reestablishing deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. They emphasized the importance of their alliance in achieving peace through strength. Secretary Hegseth praised the Philippines as a model ally and recognized President Marcos for his leadership in addressing aggressive actions in the South China Sea.
The discussion also included enhancing Philippine economic resilience and national security by strengthening both countries' defense industrial bases. The leaders agreed to collaborate further on modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard to enhance collective defense.
Secretary Hegseth will join President Trump and President Marcos at a White House meeting to further discuss their alliance.
Secretary Hegseth commended the Philippines as a model ally and applauded President Marcos for his leadership and resolve in standing up to aggressive and coercive actions in the South China Sea.