MANILA, Philippines: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Manila, Tuesday, his second since President Ferdinand Marcos assumed office, underscores the importance of reinforcing alliances in the face of growing Chinese influence.
The trip aligns with Washington’s strategy to strengthen ties with regional allies like the Philippines to counterbalance China and North Korea amidst escalating tensions.
Ahead of a trilateral summit in Washington next month involving President Biden, President Marcos, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, Blinken’s discussions with Philippine officials aim to promote a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.
Blinken is expected to reaffirm the United States’ security commitments to the Philippines, particularly in light of China’s actions in the South China Sea.
The visit follows a series of incidents involving Philippine and Chinese vessels in the region, prompting concerns and diplomatic exchanges between Manila and Beijing.
Blinken’s agenda also includes discussions on enhancing economic cooperation, highlighted by his visit to a semiconductor plant, emphasizing the Philippines’ role in ensuring a resilient chip supply chain.
Amid accusations from Beijing of US manipulation, Blinken’s visit underscores Washington’s commitment to advancing its alliance with Manila.
President Marcos’s administration has shown a shift towards strengthening ties with the United States and regional partners while addressing Chinese assertiveness in Philippine waters.
