US as a steadfast ally among a growing list of friends

“Multilateral” is a good word to describe the Philippines’ foreign relations policy. It reflects our country’s consistent efforts to build partnerships and alliances with numerous countries who share our values and our commitment to international law. It is embodied in the pronouncement of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. that we are “a friend to all and an enemy to none.”

- VICTOR ANDRES C. MANHIT

Our dealings with the outside world are determined solely by our national interest and by the increasingly crucial role we play in maintaining peace in the Indo-Pacific region and in the world.

President Marcos Jr. recently concluded a trip to India this month, during which he secured new defense agreements, expanded coast guard cooperation, and expressed interest in acquiring additional missile systems. In April this year, we signed a Visiting Forces Agreements with New Zealand, and there are now ongoing negotiations with France and Canada to establish similar defense arrangements.

Last month, the President went to the United States and met with top officials led by US President Donald Trump. The meetings that transpired during that trip are a validation of the continuing strong alliance between the two countries.

The Philippines and the US have maintained a security alliance since the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, further reaffirmed and guided by the 2023 Bilateral Defense Guidelines that highlights their longstanding commitment to regional security. In recent years, the relationship has been reinvigorated due to the increasing threats posed by China, particularly its disregard for international law and its coercive actions against the Philippines.

A significant aspect of this cooperation involves US military equipment and financing aimed at bolstering the Philippines’ defense capabilities. As part of the fiscal year 2024 Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, the US supplied the Philippines with $500 million in Foreign Military Financing.