Trump administration affirms 'ironclad alliance' with PH in defense chief call

Metro Manila, Philippines - The Trump administration is committed to maintaining its so-called ironclad alliance with the Philippines in defense and security following the conversation between the defense ministers of both countries.

Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro and his US counterpart, Pete Hegseth, had an introductory call on Wednesday, Feb.5, affirming the defense cooperation between Manila and Washington.

"The leaders discussed the importance of reestablishing deterrence in the South China Sea, including by working with allies and partners," the Pentagon said in a statement.

It added that the US will support the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

"The Secretary reaffirmed the ironclad U.S. commitment to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and its importance for maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific," the statement read.

Teodoro previously said that the Philippines and the USwill continue the momentum of defense partnership under the Trump administration.

Teodoro also dismissed concerns that military funding to the Philippines will be affected by Washington’s of foreign aid.

“Insofar as defense is concerned, I'm not worried at all,” said Teodoro.

He said that based on his meeting with US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, the partnership will be enhanced.

Teodoro said Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez has assured him that the $500-million foreign military funding promised to Manila by the Biden administration for the Official Security Assistance Roadmap will proceed.