US Defence Secretary Hegseth hails 'ironclad alliance' during Philippine visit

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited the Philippines, where he highlighted the strength of the "ironclad alliance" between the United States and the Philippines.

His remarks come amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning territorial disputes in the South China Sea. Hegseth's visit emphasized the strong defense and military cooperation between the two countries, which has been solidified through agreements like the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT).

This treaty commits both nations to support each other in the event of an armed attack, making the alliance a crucial element in regional security.