US Philippines Form Joint Task Force to Deter South China Sea Threats

The Philippines and the United States have jointly established Task Force Philippines to strengthen defense cooperation and deter Chinese coercion in the South China Sea. Announced during the ASEAN Defense Ministers Meeting in Kuala Lumpur by US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilbert Teodoro, the task force aims to enhance operational collaboration, interoperability, and preparedness to decisively respond to crises. The initiative reflects growing concerns over China's aggressive actions, such as maritime militia presence and confrontations at disputed areas like Scarborough Shoal and Second Thomas Shoal. Both countries reaffirmed their mutual defense treaty and commitment to respecting international law and territorial sovereignty. The creation of this task force is part of broader efforts to modernize the US-Philippine defense partnership and sustain regional security and stability. Dialogue with China continues amid tensions, with the US raising concerns over China's activities in the region and around Taiwan.