March 28, 2025 – U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reiterated Washington’s “ironclad commitment” to its mutual defense treaty with the Philippines, emphasizing the need for deterrence in the South China Sea in light of China’s actions. Speaking in Manila, Hegseth met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., where both leaders underscored their shared dedication to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Deterrence is necessary around the world, but specifically in this region, in your country, considering the threats from the communist Chinese,” Hegseth stated. The Philippines marks the first stop on Hegseth’s Asia tour, which has been overshadowed by revelations of sensitive U.S. attack plans against Houthi militants being leaked on a messaging app.
President Marcos welcomed Hegseth’s visit as a strong signal of U.S. support for its treaty ally. “It sends a very strong message of the commitment of both our countries to continue to work together to maintain the peace in the Indo-Pacific region within the South China Sea,” Marcos said.
The visit comes amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China over disputed territories in the South China Sea, where maritime confrontations have become increasingly frequent. Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Wu Qian criticized the U.S.-Philippines military cooperation, warning it should not harm the security interests of other nations.
As the U.S. strengthens its alliances in the region, the meeting highlights the growing geopolitical complexities in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific.