Wazzup Pilipinas!?
On January 14, 2025, in a critical phone call between US Vice President Kamala Harris and Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Harris reaffirmed the United States' steadfast commitment to supporting the Philippines, particularly as tensions rise over China’s increasing aggression in the West Philippine Sea. This conversation, which highlights the enduring strength of the US-Philippines alliance, underscores the shared goal of maintaining peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region amidst growing regional challenges.
Strengthening the US-Philippines Partnership
Vice President Harris emphasized the importance of reaffirming the United States’ commitment to defending the Philippines, especially in the South China Sea. Reflecting on her historic visit to the Philippines in November 2022, particularly her visit to Palawan, Harris underscored the vulnerability of the region and the critical need for a robust defense partnership. She also highlighted the strong bipartisan support for the US-Philippines alliance in the United States, not just in terms of security but also in areas of economic growth and people-to-people relations.
"This is extremely important to me and to the United States that we reaffirm our commitment to the defense of the Philippines, including the South China Sea," Harris said, reinforcing the enduring strength of this crucial alliance. She acknowledged the collaborative efforts that have solidified the US-Philippines relationship and emphasized the shared values that continue to guide the partnership.
The Philippines' Strong Stance on Regional Security
In his response, President Marcos expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support from Vice President Harris and the United States. He highlighted the tremendous progress the two countries have made over recent years, particularly in strengthening their bilateral relations to address modern security challenges, including tensions in the South China Sea.
"It is remarkable how much work we have done and how much it has developed our relationship, evolving to meet the modern challenges we face both in the South China Sea and globally," said President Marcos, recognizing the US’s pivotal role in strengthening the Philippines' security and sovereignty. He also noted the transformative impact of the trilateral defense agreement between the US, Japan, and the Philippines, which has altered the regional dynamic, particularly concerning the South China Sea and broader Indo-Pacific security.
President Marcos also emphasized the importance of the growing cooperation between the Philippines, the US, and Japan. This trilateral alliance has gained recognition within ASEAN, reinforcing the collective regional position on pressing security issues, especially those concerning the West Philippine Sea. "The strengthened relationship between our countries has become a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration in defense, diplomacy, and security," Marcos stated.
Trilateral Cooperation to Confront Regional Challenges
The reaffirmation of US-Philippine defense commitments comes at a time of heightened tensions in the South China Sea. On January 13, 2025, US President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, and President Marcos held a trilateral virtual meeting. The leaders discussed regional maritime security, economic cooperation, and China’s "dangerous and unlawful behavior" in the South China Sea. The leaders also underscored the importance of maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, stressing the need to uphold international law and promote stability in the region.
"This trilateral partnership is more important than ever as we face rising tensions and increasing provocations from China," President Marcos remarked following the meeting. The leaders agreed to continue deepening their cooperation to address security threats and ensure the protection of sovereignty in the region.
China’s Increasing Aggression in the South China Sea
China’s aggressive actions in the South China Sea have been a point of contention, with reports highlighting Beijing’s assertive moves in disputed territories. One of the most concerning developments has been China’s increased presence near the disputed Scarborough Shoal, with a large Chinese coast guard vessel patrolling the area, coming dangerously close to the Philippine coast. Philippine officials have condemned these actions, calling them a clear violation of the Philippines' exclusive economic zone (EEZ). China, however, has defended its activities as lawful, further complicating the situation.
The Philippines has continued to challenge China’s unlawful claims in the South China Sea, with President Marcos reiterating the country’s stance against Beijing’s excessive territorial claims. "China must cease its unlawful activities in the South China Sea, as they threaten regional security and undermine international law," Marcos stated in response to these growing provocations.
A Strong and Enduring Alliance
The US-Philippines alliance is founded on decades of diplomatic, defense, and economic cooperation. As the Philippines’ oldest and only treaty ally, the United States remains a key partner in bolstering the country’s defense and security capabilities. Bilateral defense agreements such as the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) continue to serve as critical pillars in the bilateral relationship.
Economically, the United States is a major trade partner of the Philippines, ranking as the third-largest trading partner in 2023 with bilateral trade valued at US$19.96 billion. The strength of this economic relationship, combined with ongoing defense cooperation, solidifies the US-Philippines alliance as a cornerstone for regional stability.
Looking Ahead: A Unified Approach to Regional Challenges
As tensions in the South China Sea continue to rise, the US and the Philippines remain resolute in their commitment to addressing regional security challenges. The enhanced trilateral cooperation with Japan, alongside a steadfast partnership with the United States, positions the Philippines to face these challenges head-on.
The enduring alliance between the US and the Philippines is critical not only for defending territorial integrity but also for ensuring a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific. As the two nations continue to work together, their shared values and commitment to international law will remain central in navigating the complexities of regional security. The US-Philippines partnership is poised to grow even stronger as both countries stand united in confronting the rising threats in the South China Sea and beyond.
In closing, President Marcos extended an invitation to Vice President Harris to visit the Philippines again, building on their ongoing discussions and the strengthening of their bilateral relationship. The US-Philippines alliance remains a vital force for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific, with both nations committed to ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the region.
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
