The Philippines and the United States signed a military intelligence-sharing agreement on Monday, bolstering defense ties amid rising tensions in the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific region.
The Philippines and the United States have strengthened their defense alliance by signing a military intelligence-sharing agreement, aimed at enhancing collaboration and addressing regional security challenges.U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro signed the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) at Manila’s military headquarters. The ceremony also marked the groundbreaking of a new coordination center designed to enhance collaboration between the two nations’ armed forces.
The GSOMIA allows the secure exchange of classified military information. “Not only will this allow the Philippines access to higher capabilities and big-ticket items from the United States, it will also open opportunities to pursue similar agreements with like-minded nations,” said Arsenio Andolong, spokesperson for the Philippine defense ministry.
Under the leadership of U.S. President Joe Biden and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the two nations have deepened their security cooperation, particularly in response to perceived Chinese aggression in the South China Sea and near Taiwan. China’s foreign ministry criticized the agreement, stating that military partnerships “must not be directed against or harm the interests of a third party, and they must not undermine regional peace or exacerbate tensions in the region.”
“The only correct choice for safeguarding one’s own national security and maintaining peace and stability in the region is to adhere to good neighborly relations and to strategic autonomy,” said Lin Jian, spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry.
The U.S.-Philippines mutual defense treaty, established in 1951, could be invoked in the event of an attack on either party, including in the South China Sea. At the ceremony, Austin reaffirmed U.S. commitment to its ally, saying, “I want to start by underscoring our ironclad commitment to the Philippines.” He added that the new coordination center “will be a place where our forces can work side by side to respond to regional challenges.”
The Philippines has expressed optimism about the alliance’s strength. Both countries face increasing tensions with China over the South China Sea, a vital trade route handling over $3 trillion in annual commerce, which Beijing claims almost entirely. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague ruled that China’s claims had no legal basis, siding with the Philippines. However, China rejected the ruling, leading to confrontations that have turned the region into a flashpoint between Washington and Beijing.
“The United States’ presence in the Indo-Pacific region is essential for maintaining peace and stability in this region,” said Teodoro, echoing previous comments from President Marcos.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew thanked President-elect Trump for his efforts to save the app in the U.S., as a January 19 deadline looms for ByteDance to sell or shut it down.
Wildfires in Los Angeles have devastated entire neighborhoods, with thousands of structures damaged or destroyed. Over 6,700 buildings have been impacted by the Eaton Fire alone, while hotels provide shelter for evacuees. The crisis is also straining Southern California’s housing market.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday, January 14, to hold discussions with Ukrainian officials. The talks focused on evaluating the military situation and exploring further aid measures as the war with Russia continues.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew thanked President-elect Trump for his efforts to save the app in the U.S., as a January 19 deadline looms for ByteDance to sell or shut it down.
The World Bank confirms Kazakhstan's GDP growth forecast at 4.7% for 2025 and 3.5% for 2026, with oil production driving recovery.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Reports of a two-month halt in Azerbaijani gas supplies to Serbia are false. Despite a technical issue at Shah Deniz Alpha, Shah Deniz Bravo ensures steady exports, with supplies set to resume soon. BP confirms no damage or environmental impact.
Coast Guard divers Chuck Fox and Corey Smith from the US Cutter *Polar Star* successfully repaired a leaking shaft in the freezing waters of McMurdo Sound, Antarctica.
As we welcome the new year, it’s time to focus on species needing urgent conservation in 2025. From delicate lizards to mighty hornbills and massive sharks, all face the threat of extinction.
Over 100 Paris 2024 Olympic medals were returned due to quality issues linked to EU regulations and an untested varnish formula. The IOC has pledged to replace all defective medals.
The Weeknd, one of the biggest music stars of our time, has announced that his upcoming album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, releasing on January 24, 2025, will be his final project under the “The Weeknd” name.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew thanked President-elect Trump for his efforts to save the app in the U.S., as a January 19 deadline looms for ByteDance to sell or shut it down.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Thousands in Belgrade held a silent protest outside RTS, honouring victims of a roof collapse. University students demanded justice for the tragedy, blaming Serbian authorities.
South Korea's impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol appeared in court to contest his detention extension on insurrection charges tied to his martial law declaration.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew thanked President-elect Trump for his efforts to save the app in the U.S., as a January 19 deadline looms for ByteDance to sell or shut it down.
The World Bank confirms Kazakhstan's GDP growth forecast at 4.7% for 2025 and 3.5% for 2026, with oil production driving recovery.
Brazil announces Nigeria's acceptance as a partner country in BRICS, highlighting shared interests and Nigeria's growing role in global governance and the Global South.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Briefing: here are the top news stories for January 18th, covering the latest developments you need to know.
You can download the AnewZ application from Play Store and the App Store.
What is your opinion on this topic?
Leave the first comment