US-Philippines defense relationship strengthens due to China's assertiveness in the South China Sea.

The US-Philippines defense relationship strengthens as China's assertiveness in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly the South China Sea, raises concerns. The 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty obligates the US to aid the Philippines in case of an "armed attack" in the South China Sea. The US commitment to the Philippines is "clarified and coherent" and driven by the Philippines' strategic position near the South China Sea and self-ruled Taiwan, claimed by China.

April 12, 2024
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