Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided a readout of a phone conversation between Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr.
During the call, Secretary Austin reaffirmed the U.S.'s commitment to the Philippines following actions by the People's Republic of China (PRC) on June 17, which affected lawful operations by the Philippines to deliver humanitarian supplies to service members stationed at the BRP Sierra Madre.
Secretary Austin emphasized continued U.S. support for the Philippines in defending its sovereign rights. The two officials discussed the importance of preserving the rights of all nations to fly, sail, and operate safely and responsibly wherever international law permits.
Both officials also reiterated their commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Philippine alliance in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. This includes cooperation with like-minded partners and bilateral initiatives aimed at enhancing information-sharing, boosting the capability of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and investing in U.S. rotational force posture under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement.
