The U.S. and Philippine officials have unveiled new initiatives to strengthen defense and security cooperation. The U.S. will provide USD 500 million in foreign military financing to support the modernization of the Philippine military and coast guard. This funding will be managed through a bilateral working group and guided by the Philippines-Security Sector Assistance Roadmap, aiming to address gaps in the country’s defense capabilities.
The U.S. also plans to increase its investment in military bases in the Philippines, with USD 128 million allocated for this year to enhance infrastructure at sites hosting U.S. troops. Additionally, the U.S. Agency for International Development will use one of these bases to stock humanitarian supplies.
This development follows recent tensions in the South China Sea, where Philippine and Chinese forces clashed. The Philippines is enhancing its security partnerships with the U.S., Japan, and Australia in response. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of this investment for improving Philippine defense capabilities and regional stability.
(Source: U.S. Naval Institute; The Hill)
