U.S. Secretary Rubio Reaffirms Defense Commitment to the Philippines Amid Tensions with China

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted China’s “dangerous and destabilizing actions” in the South China Sea during a call with Philippine Foreign Minister Enrique Manalo, reaffirming Washington’s “ironclad” defense commitment to Manila. The U.S. State Department stated Rubio condemned Beijing’s actions as undermining regional peace and violating international law.

The Philippines has faced increasing maritime tensions with China, particularly within its exclusive economic zone. Security cooperation between the two nations has intensified under Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who has strengthened military ties with the U.S. by expanding base access, including facilities near Taiwan.

Rubio’s call followed a Quad meeting with leaders from Australia, India, and Japan, focusing on countering China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts view the meeting as a signal of continuity in U.S. foreign policy, emphasizing the region's importance under President Donald Trump’s new administration.

The Philippines and the U.S. recently concluded their fifth joint maritime exercise in the South China Sea since 2023, showcasing strengthened military cooperation. Japan also pledged to bolster trilateral collaboration with the U.S. and the Philippines to address security concerns.

These developments reflect the growing alignment among Indo-Pacific allies to counter China’s assertiveness, with Rubio stressing the importance of deepening security ties, economic cooperation, and regional collaboration.