Manila [Philippines]: The United States plans to strengthen the Philippines’ military capabilities and expand joint military drills in the face of growing regional tensions, according to Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, as reported by the Taipei Times.
In an interview held Thursday in Manila, Teodoro revealed that the Philippines expects to receive annual US defense funding of $500 million through 2029, aimed at enhancing its military preparedness and countering China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea and surrounding regions.
“It is a no-brainer for anybody, because of the aggressive behavior of China. The efforts for deterrence, for joint resilience and alliance building will not change,” Teodoro stated.
With geopolitical and trade tensions escalating between the US and China, the Philippines has become an increasingly pivotal strategic partner in Washington’s efforts to push back against Beijing’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific.
Last month, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth began his Asia tour in Manila, underscoring the strength of the “ironclad” US-Philippines alliance. In support of the partnership, the Trump administration has reportedly excluded the Philippines from a broader military aid freeze, signaling continued US support.
Additionally, the US State Department recently notified Congress about a possible $5.6 billion sale of F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines. The acquisition is part of Manila’s broader strategy to bolster its military as it challenges China’s extensive territorial claims in the region.
Teodoro told Taipei Times that the initial funding will enable the Philippines to acquire equipment to better monitor contested waters. Simultaneously, the country is working towards acquiring its own medium-range missile system.
One possibility under review is the land-based Typhon missile system, which was deployed by the US in the Philippines during joint military drills last year. The system, capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles with the range to reach parts of mainland China, has sparked objections from Beijing.
To fund its modernization plans further, the Philippine defense department is exploring ways to raise capital from domestic markets, Teodoro added.
Looking ahead, the Philippines is expecting to receive more advanced weaponry from the US and other allies for training purposes. Teodoro also emphasized that joint military drills will become more frequent and sophisticated, aligning Philippine defense capabilities with not just the US, but also partners like Japan and Australia.
Later this month, the US and Philippine armed forces will conduct their annual joint exercises, during which the US is set to deploy anti-ship missile systems and uncrewed surface vessels in the Philippines for the first time.