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US Defense Chief Hegseth Pledges to Tackle China's Bold Moves; PH, US, Japan Join Forces in Indo-Pacific Drill
Navies from the Philippines, United States, and Japan recently conducted a joint sail in the Indo-Pacific region, focusing on the West Philippine Sea. This Multilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity showcased the growing partnership between the three nations, with the Philippine Navy deploying the BRP Jose Rizal, Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force sending the JS Noshiro, and the US Navy deploying the USS Shoup.
The exercise followed the inaugural port call of Japan's JS Noshiro at Subic Bay, highlighting the strengthening ties between the countries. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the importance of these alliances, stating that such cooperation sends a strong signal of unity and deterrence in the face of regional challenges.
Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. praised the trilateral cooperation, noting its rapid progress and the integration of capabilities with other allies like Australia. He also highlighted Japan's establishment of a joint operational command as a result of this partnership.
The backdrop to these activities is the ongoing tension in the South China Sea, where China's expansive claims clash with those of the Philippines and other nations. Despite a 2016 international ruling rejecting China's claims, Beijing continues to assert its sovereignty over the region.
The US has pledged to enhance its military alliance with the Philippines, deploying advanced capabilities and prioritizing joint training to counter China's aggression. Hegseth reiterated America's "ironclad" commitment to the Philippines' defense, emphasizing the need for strong alliances to ensure regional stability.
China, however, has criticized these actions, accusing the US and the Philippines of escalating tensions and undermining peace in the region.
Source:
https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/940894/philippines-us-japan-navies-joint-sail-west-philippine-sea-hegseth/story/
https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/27/asia/pete-hegseth-asia-tour-philippines-marcos-intl-hnk/index.html
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