In a significant diplomatic engagement, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. of the Philippines discussed the situation in the West Philippine Sea with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris at the 2023 APEC Summit in San Francisco. This meeting underscores the ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region and highlights the Philippines’ role in maintaining stability in Southeast Asia.
During this high-profile encounter, Marcos provided Harris with a detailed assessment of recent incidents in the West Philippine Sea. This exchange reflects the heightened interest of the United States in the security and territorial integrity of its ally, particularly against the backdrop of China’s growing assertiveness in the region. Marcos’s narrative included developments over the past few months, painting a comprehensive picture for the U.S. administration.
Significantly, Harris reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the Philippines in defending its territorial rights in the South China Sea. This commitment is rooted in the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which obligates the U.S. to respond to armed attacks on Philippine forces, vessels, or aircraft in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.
In a move to modernize and strengthen bilateral defense cooperation, the Philippines and the U.S. have established guidelines aimed at enhancing their alliance for a “free and open Indo-Pacific region.” This collaboration is crucial for the Philippines, which has been navigating a complex landscape of regional tensions and territorial disputes.
President Marcos also disclosed plans to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting is expected to focus on measures to prevent the escalation of tension in the West Philippine Sea, indicating Manila’s commitment to peaceful resolution and diplomacy in addressing territorial disputes.
This development in Philippine-U.S. relations signifies a reaffirmation of their longstanding alliance, especially in the context of the evolving security dynamics in Southeast Asia. It also marks a crucial step in ensuring peace and stability in a region that has been fraught with territorial conflicts.