MANILA, Philippines (AP) — On Friday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the Trump administration aims to collaborate with allies to enhance global deterrence against various threats, particularly focusing on China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.
While visiting the Philippines, Hegseth attributed the increased boldness of aggressors like China to inadequate responses from the previous Biden administration. He noted that under President Donald Trump, the U.S. military is being revitalized and is aiming to restore its “warrior ethos” in the region, though he didn’t provide further details.
Hegseth addressed a news conference alongside Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, highlighting the need to re-establish strength and deterrence worldwide due to many years of lagging military readiness. “There’s a history of countries testing U.S. resolve,” Hegseth remarked. “We are determined to cooperate with our partners now.”
Earlier, he conveyed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that deterrence is particularly crucial in the Indo-Pacific due to threats posed by communist China. Hegseth emphasized that allied nations need to unite to prevent conflict and ensure free navigation through the contested waters.
He clarified that while the U.S. is focused on deterrence, it is not preparing for war, asserting that peace can only be achieved through strength. The Philippines is his first destination on a trip to Asia, followed by plans to visit Japan, another key U.S. ally.
As part of his commitment to the Philippines, Hegseth announced an increase in security assistance, building on a previously announced $500 million fund for the modernization of the Philippine military. This funding was initially revealed by the Biden administration.
In addition, the U.S. plans to deploy an anti-ship missile system and unmanned sea vessels for major joint military exercises next month with American and Filipino forces, aiding in the defense of Philippine sovereignty. He also mentioned training operations for special forces in Batanes province, close to Taiwan, which China considers a part of its territory.
Hegseth stated that U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s Chief Adm. Samuel Paparo has “real war plans” ready to support the creation of strategic challenges for China to reconsider any aggressive actions. Secretary Teodoro noted that the Philippines is strengthening security partnerships with friendly nations to bolster deterrence, preparing for any future defense needs. Hegseth reaffirmed U.S. obligations to assist the Philippines under threat, especially in the South China Sea.
