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US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin advised that Washington would intervene in the event of an attack on Philippine ships, planes and vessels. During a conversation with his colleague Carlito Galvez, he recalled the obligations of the United States towards an ally. They are documented in 1951.
Defense ministers discussed an incident in the South China Sea in which a Chinese Coast Guard ship fired a combat laser at a supply vessel delivering food and personnel to the beached Philippine vessel Sierra Madre.
Austin underscored “states’ commitment to support legitimate Philippine rights and operations in the South China Sea,” including around disputed Spratly territory.
The ministerial leaders also authorized the resumption of “joint maritime activities” in the South China Sea and assessed prospects for cooperation with other partner countries.
