MANILA, Philippines — During a visit to the Philippines, the U.S. Defense Secretary underscored the Trump administration’s commitment to bolstering global deterrence measures, specifically addressing China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea. The Defense Secretary criticized the previous administration for what he described as actions that emboldened adversaries such as China over the past years. According to his claims, President Donald Trump is reinforcing the U.S. military and reinstating its “warrior ethos” in the region, although further details were not provided.
In a joint press conference alongside his Philippine counterpart, the Defense Secretary emphasized the necessity of reinvigorating U.S. strength and deterrence across multiple global hotspots due to years of perceived weakness. He mentioned that numerous countries in the past have attempted to test U.S. resolve, but the current administration is dedicated to collaborating with allies to reinforce resilience. He highlighted the importance of deterrence particularly in the Indo-Pacific amid looming threats from China’s communist regime.
While engaging with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., he stated that allies must stand united to avoid conflict and ensure freedom of navigation in contested regions, whether referred to as the South China Sea or the West Philippine Sea. He affirmed that the intention is not to prepare for war but to secure peace through strength.
The Philippines marks the first stop of the Defense Secretary’s trip to Asia, with Japan, another key U.S. ally, as the next destination. Ahead of this regional visit, China criticized the U.S., branding it as an unreliable ally and a “predator.”
The U.S. administration is dedicating additional security assistance to the Philippines, building upon a previously established $500 million fund intended to modernize the Philippine military. The Defense Secretary announced that an anti-ship missile system and unmanned sea vessels would be deployed for upcoming large-scale military exercises between U.S. and Filipino forces. These exercises aim to fortify the defense of Philippine sovereignty. Special operations training will also be conducted in Batanes province, close to Taiwan, which China claims as its province and has threatened to annex.
The South China Sea remains a contested region, with China claiming nearly all of it as its own. Other countries, including the Philippines, have overlapping claims, leading to confrontations in recent years. The U.S. defense leader highlighted that the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command is ready to collaborate with allies to create strategic challenges for China, aimed at making them reconsider aggressive maneuvers.
The Philippines continues to cultivate security partnerships with other countries, seeking increased deterrence. Philippine Defense Secretary Teodoro remarked on the necessity of preparedness to defend mutual interests and uphold international law.
Despite concerns regarding the U.S.’s “America First” policy and its implications for Asian relationships under Trump, the U.S. has reiterated its obligations to defend the Philippines in case of aggression, including in disputed maritime areas. This commitment was reaffirmed during discussions with Philippine leaders.
However, China remains opposed to foreign interference in the South China Sea. Chinese officials criticized U.S.-Philippines military collaboration, warning against engaging with external forces that might jeopardize regional security. They cautioned the Philippines about the risks of aligning with a power that may abandon its allies.
Despite facing criticism in the past for disclosing sensitive information, the U.S. Defense Secretary appeared poised and amiable during his Manila visit. Participating in joint physical training with American and Filipino forces, he also mingled with military personnel, forging camaraderie as part of his diplomatic outreach.