Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Junior emphasized the significance of a cooperation agreement between the Philippines, the United States, and Japan, stating that it would alter the dynamics in the South China Sea and the ASEAN region. Speaking at a press conference in Washington following a trilateral summit, Marcos sought to reassure China that the agreement was not aimed at targeting any specific country.
Marcos underscored the importance of the trilateral agreement, highlighting its potential to reshape the regional landscape in ASEAN and Asia, particularly concerning issues in the South China Sea. Despite expressing "serious concerns" about China's behavior in the region, Marcos clarified that the summit was focused on enhancing economic and security ties among Manila, Washington, and Tokyo, rather than being against any particular nation.
Tensions have escalated in the South China Sea, with China asserting territorial claims over almost the entire region, contrary to a 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Recent incidents between Philippine and Chinese ships have further strained relations.
In response to China's objections, Marcos reiterated that the trilateral cooperation was not intended to antagonize any country but rather to strengthen regional security and prosperity. The Philippines has deepened its security engagements with the United States and Japan under Marcos, including expanding US access to Philippine bases and anticipated agreements with Japan on troop deployment.
Additionally, Marcos expressed optimism about potential investment deals worth around $100 billion over the next five to ten years resulting from the summit. During his visit to Washington, Marcos met with US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who reaffirmed US support and emphasized the importance of collective security and prosperity in the region.
