US eager to extend security options in the Philippines

Defence Secretary expected to announce expanded US access to military bases there

MANILA - US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin's visit to the Philippines this week is expected to bring an announcement of expanded US access to military bases in the country, a senior Philippine official said on Wednesday.

Washington is eager to extend its security options in the Philippines as part of efforts to deter any move by China against self-ruled Taiwan, while Manila wants to bolster defence of its territorial claims in the disputed South China Sea.

Mr Austin arrived in Manila on Tuesday night, and will meet his Philippine counterpart and other officials on Thursday "to build on our strong bilateral relationship, discuss a range of security initiatives, and advance our shared vision of a free and open Pacific", he said on Twitter.

On Wednesday morning, he visited US troops stationed at a Philippine military camp in the southern city of Zamboanga, according to Major-General Roy Galido, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

"Our working relationship... is very strong," Maj-Gen Galido told reporters, adding that US troops help in counter-terrorism, and humanitarian and disaster response missions.