Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday to discuss strengthening military ties and deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region.
The high-level meeting signals Washington’s renewed focus on countering China’s growing assertiveness in disputed waters while bolstering alliances with key Pacific partners.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty during a meeting on July 21. They emphasized the alliance’s crucial role in promoting regional stability through its strength.
Hegseth praised the Philippines as “a model ally” and commended Marcos for his “leadership and resolve in standing up to aggressive and coercive actions in the South China Sea.” The defense secretary’s remarks underscore growing concerns about Beijing’s territorial claims in the contested waterway.
The Pentagon chief pledged increased support for the Philippines’ economic resilience and national security, including strengthening both nations’ defense industrial bases —a priority for the Trump administration.
The leaders agreed to expand collaboration on modernizing the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard. They also discussed enhancing collective defense and deterrence capabilities in the region.
Hegseth will accompany President Trump when Marcos visits the White House for further discussions on the alliance. The timing of that meeting was not announced.
The Philippines remains a crucial strategic partner for Washington’s Indo-Pacific strategy. The archipelagic nation sits along vital shipping lanes and provides access to key military facilities near potential flashpoints.