US envoy reaffirms PH alliance 'stronger than ever' after ASEAN defense meet

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United States Ambassador to the Philippines Lee Lipton on Monday reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to Philippine security, describing it as “ironclad” and the two countries’ alliance as “stronger than ever.”

Lipton issued the statement following the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting-Plus in Cebu, which was attended by US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

“I want to reaffirm the United States’ enduring commitment to the Philippines and our shared vision for a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” Lipton said.

He said Hegseth’s frequent engagements with Southeast Asian partners demonstrate the Trump administration’s “determination to strengthen alliances, deepen regional cooperation, and ensure that peace is backed by strength.”

Lipton added that the visits of the US Secretary of War also underscore the importance Washington places on Southeast Asia and its alliance with the Philippines.

“Our commitment to Philippine security is ironclad. With President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the United States and the Philippines have built a powerful partnership grounded in shared principles, mutual respect, and an unwavering commitment to regional stability,” Lipton said.

“As we mark 75 years of the US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, our message is clear: our alliance is stronger than ever,” he added.

Lipton also emphasized Washington’s long-term commitment to the partnership, particularly its support for defending Philippine sovereignty, protecting the country’s territorial integrity, and upholding freedom of navigation.

Beyond defense cooperation, the US envoy said the security partnership should be matched by an equally strong economic relationship, stressing Washington’s support for the Philippines’ economic development.

“The United States is proud to call the Philippines an ally, partner, and friend. Our relationship is not simply a matter of treaties or shared strategic interests; it is a bond between our peoples that grows stronger every day,” Lipton said.

During the ASEAN-United States Defense Ministers’ Informal Meeting, Hegseth proposed developing a framework for defense cooperation between Washington and ASEAN in recognition of the 50th anniversary of US-ASEAN relations.— MCG, GMA News

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