US Promises Defense of Philippines and Japan Against Chinese Aggression

Assuring support, President Joe Biden vows to protect the Philippines in the South China Sea from any potential threats.

Amid escalating tensions with Beijing, Biden conducted the first joint summit with Manila and Tokyo.

During a meeting with Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Biden reiterated the unwavering commitment of the United States to defend Japan and the Philippines.

The summit, held at the White House, comes in the wake of multiple clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels in the disputed region, heightening concerns of a broader conflict.

Biden’s promise came after he held discussions with Kishida, reinforcing their alliance, a move that faced strong criticism from the Chinese government.

“In case of any attacks on Philippine military assets in the South China Sea, our mutual defense treaty would be activated,” stated Biden.

Highlighting a similar commitment made during a previous meeting between Biden and the Philippine president at the White House in the past year.

China’s claim of sovereignty over most of the South China Sea disregards rival claims from various Southeast Asian countries including the Philippines.