U.S. Military Open to Discussing Escorting Philippine Ships Amid Rising Tensions with China

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — In a significant development, the head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Adm. Samuel Paparo, expressed a willingness to discuss the possibility of escorting Philippine ships in the increasingly contentious South China Sea. This statement comes at a time when hostilities between Beijing and Manila are on the rise.

During a news conference in Manila with Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., chief of the Philippine Armed Forces, Adm. Paparo addressed the pressing issue of maritime security in the disputed waters. His remarks hint at the U.S. military’s readiness to consider operations that could potentially lead to direct encounters between U.S. Navy vessels and Chinese ships.

Frequent clashes between Chinese coast guard, navy, and suspected militia vessels with Philippine boats have become more common, particularly during attempts to resupply Filipino sailors stationed in areas claimed by both nations. These confrontations have led to injuries among Filipino personnel and damage to their vessels, prompting the Philippine government to contemplate invoking its treaty alliance with the United States.

Paparo and Brawner’s discussion followed an international military conference organized by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, which focused on China’s assertive actions in the region. Notably absent from this gathering were representatives from China.

When asked if the U.S. would consider protecting Philippine vessels delivering essential supplies to troops in the South China Sea, Paparo stated, “Certainly, within the context of consultations.” He emphasized that all options under the Mutual Defense Treaty between the two nations remain viable.

Brawner responded carefully, noting that any involvement of foreign forces in local operations must adhere to Philippine laws, which include restrictions on direct foreign military engagement. He asserted that the Armed Forces of the Philippines would prioritize self-reliance in achieving their missions, including troop resupply.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. reiterated that no circumstances have yet arisen to trigger the treaty’s activation, which obligates allies to assist each other in times of external aggression. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has reaffirmed his administration’s strong commitment to defend the Philippines under the 1951 treaty if Filipino forces encounter armed threats in the South China Sea.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. characterized China as “the biggest disruptor” of peace in Southeast Asia, calling for heightened international condemnation of its aggressive actions. This statement came shortly after China obstructed Philippine vessels from delivering supplies to a coast guard ship at Sabina Shoal, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the contested waters.