Philippine officials maintain strong confidence in the United States' commitment to their defense despite President Trump's recent tumultuous foreign policy changes. Key to their assurance is the shared objective of countering China, viewed as a growing adversary by both nations. Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the Philippine defense secretary, emphasized that the restoration of approximately $400 million in U.S. military aid last month is evidence that the bilateral relationship remains robust.
This support comes after Trump’s freeze on foreign assistance, which had left some Philippine officials anxious about the stability of their ties with Washington. Speaking from Manila, Teodoro asserted that the recent military assistance is “the best proof” of the solid connection between the U.S. and the Philippines, especially in light of ongoing maritime disputes between Manila and Beijing over territorial claims in the South China Sea.
In recent dialogues with members of Trump's cabinet, Teodoro received clear assurances about the U.S.'s commitment to its defense obligations with Manila. “We have no reason to doubt the commitments made by the highest officials of the Trump administration,” he stated, following a visit to Washington where he discussed security matters with National Security Adviser Mike Waltz.
However, concerns linger within the Philippines about Trump's erratic approach to international alliances, marked by tensions with long-standing allies like Canada and Europe, as well as challenges with NATO. Each action creates underlying worries in Manila regarding how steadfast U.S. policy toward the Philippines will ultimately be, as Trump has not specifically addressed the status of Indo-Pacific partnerships recently.
Even amidst these uncertainties, Philippine leaders project optimism, believing their historical and strategic defense relationship will endure, particularly as both nations grapple with the implications of China's expanding influence in the region.
