Manila: Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio have affirmed the strength of the Philippines-US alliance during a conversation Wednesday night. In a statement, Manalo highlighted their discussion on the “importance of the alliance for the prosperity and security of the Indo-Pacific,” as well as the strength of the two states’ bilateral political, economic, and people-to-people ties. Manalo expressed optimism about working with Rubio and his team to address challenges and sustain the positive trajectory in bilateral relations.

According to Philippines News Agency, the State Department noted that the two foreign secretaries also discussed China’s actions in the South China Sea, which they described as “dangerous and destabilizing.” Rubio emphasized that China’s behavior undermines regional peace and stability and is inconsistent with international law. He reiterated the US’ commitments to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, underscoring the importance of security cooperation.

The conversation between Manalo and Rubio also explored ways to expand economic ties and deepen regional cooperation. Prior to his discussion with Manalo, Rubio had met with foreign ministers of the QUAD-a regional security grouping comprising the US, Japan, India, and Australia-reaffirming the US commitment to a “free and open Indo-Pacific” where the rule of law and democratic values are upheld.

Additionally, Rubio’s meeting with Japan’s Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi resulted in agreement on the importance of further coordination among like-minded countries, including Japan-US-Republic of Korea, Japan-Australia-India-US, and Japan-US-Philippines alliances.