Meeting of U.S. and Philippine Leaders in Washington; Biden Emphasizes America's 'Ironclad' Commitment to Defend Its Ally

U.S. President Joe Biden, in a meeting with Ferdinand Marcos Jr., President of the Philippines, emphasized the 'ironclad' commitment of the United States to defend its ally, including in the South China Sea. The Philippine leader, on Monday, May 1, marked his first visit to the White House in 10 years, highlighting the importance of the U.S. as the only allied country to Manila in a region that 'could be said to be currently facing the most complex geopolitical situation in the world.' This meeting took place as both countries are working to counter China's aggressive actions near Taiwan and in the South China Sea. U.S. officials stated that the two countries emphasized new guidelines for military cooperation and increased economic collaboration. A joint statement from the U.S. and the Philippines noted that in the event of any attack on Philippine armed forces, ships, and aircraft, including in the South China Sea, the U.S. would fulfill its mutual defense commitments established in the 1951 defense treaty with the Philippines. U.S. and Philippine forces began their largest military exercises in decades on April 11, involving approximately 12,200 U.S. military personnel, 5,400 Filipino troops, and 111 Australian military members, across the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Washington has repeatedly warned China about its increasing aggressive actions in the region.