US vows to deploy more missiles, drones in PH this year
MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States on Tuesday pledged to increase the deployment of advanced US missile and unmanned systems in the Philippines, a move aimed at strengthening deterrence in the West Philippine Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific, according to a joint statement released after the 12th Philippines‑US Bilateral Strategic Dialogue in Manila.
The statement reaffirmed the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, emphasizing that it covers attacks on the armed forces, aircraft, and public vessels of both countries anywhere in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.
It also condemned “illegal, coercive, aggressive, and deceptive” actions in the disputed waters, without naming any country, and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation, lawful commerce, and peaceful dispute resolution.
Beijing and Manila have long had a tense relationship over competing claims in the West Philippine Sea, despite a 2016 international arbitral ruling affirming Philippine sovereignty over much of the area.
READ: US cites China aggression, vows deeper PH-Japan deterrence
The dialogue outlined several 2026 commitments to enhance joint military capabilities and interoperability.
These include prepositioning humanitarian relief supplies at Philippine bases, strengthening maritime and cyber defenses, supporting civilian-led disaster responses, and accelerating modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Coast Guard.
The statement also underscored the importance of working with regional partners, including Japan and Australia. Officials said they plan to hold the fifth “2+2” Ministerial Dialogue in the United States and conduct additional joint military exercises to boost readiness in realistic scenarios.
Economic and strategic collaboration was also emphasized. This includes initiatives to develop the Luzon Economic Corridor, expand critical minerals supply chains, strengthen energy infrastructure, and promote private-sector investment in strategic sectors.
US support for nuclear technology training and the construction of a small modular reactor control room simulator in the Philippines were also cited. /jpv
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