Philippines Defence Secretary Says US Focus Unshaken
SkimNews Take
Manila’s confidence in U.S. Indo-Pacific focus, despite Middle East tensions, suggests a belief that regional allies have sufficiently diversified their security partnerships to mitigate any potential U.S. distraction.
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- Philippines says US deterrence remains strong despite Iran war, citing confidence in Mutual Defence Treaty.
- China has boosted naval activity, transiting an aircraft carrier through Taiwan Strait and installing a barrier at Scarborough shoal.
- Japan lifted long‑standing arms‑export restrictions, paving the way for the Philippines to acquire Japanese frigates.
- Gilberto Teodoro expressed confidence that Manila will build defence resilience through a network of like‑minded partners.
- Balikatan drills featured the largest ever number of participating countries, including Japanese combat troops for the first time.
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