Adm. Samuel Paparo stated that sending US ships to escort Philippine vessels in contested waters is "an entirely reasonable option" within the Mutual Defense Treaty.
The US is bound by a 1951 treaty to defend the Philippines if they come under armed attack, highlighting the commitment to aid its Pacific ally.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. mentioned that the current South China Sea conflict has not yet necessitated treaty activation despite ongoing tensions.
Philippine military chief Romeo Brawner expressed a preference for conducting resupply missions independently but acknowledged the potential need for alternative options.
#us-philippine-relations #south-china-sea #military-diplomacy #china-tensions #mutual-defense-treaty
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