In a significant diplomatic engagement, the Philippines and the United States have solidified their enduring alliance and defense cooperation. The meeting, held at the White House, saw Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and the newly appointed US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz reaffirm their commitment to mutual security interests. This gathering took place shortly after President Donald Trump’s inauguration, marking the Philippines as one of the first nations to engage with the new US administration on security issues.
Secretary Teodoro, accompanied by Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, conveyed congratulations to the US for a smooth transition of power. He emphasized the shared dedication to peace, stability, and security in the region, and stressed the need to bolster bilateral defense relations to tackle emerging geopolitical challenges. Teodoro’s visit was directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and coordinated with Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Año.
During the discussions, NSA Waltz acknowledged President Marcos’ efforts in maintaining freedom of navigation and supporting a rules-based international order. The meeting also included interactions with other key US officials such as Principal Deputy National Security Advisor Alex Wong, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense Andrew Byers, and US National Security Council Senior Director for Asia Ivan Kanapathy.
Both nations expressed a keen interest in enhancing their cooperation, with a focus on increasing mutual security activities to support a free and open Indo-Pacific region, an initiative that originated during Trump’s first term. This engagement is seen as a pivotal move to advance the long-standing alliance between the Philippines and the United States, with both sides optimistic about deepening their defense and security collaboration in the coming years.