Through a phone discussion, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and US Defense Chief Lloyd Austin III addressed recent Chinese operations against Philippine warships near Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea, with the US official denouncing them.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday (Manila time) by Pentagon Press Secretary Brigadier General Pat Ryder, Teodoro and Austin reviewed recent developments in the South China Sea, including China's efforts to hinder the Philippine resupply mission to Ayungin Shoal (Second Thomas Shoal).
In a statement, Secretary Austin denounced the China Coast Guard's use of water cannons and other reckless tactics, which jeopardized the safety of Philippine boats and crew.
The Pentagon stated that the two defense officials reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the rules-based order and supporting the Philippines' right to conduct lawful maritime activities in accordance with the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal verdict, which is "final and binding on all parties.
Austin emphasized that the Mutual Defense Treaty protects Philippine public boats, aircraft, and armed units in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.
The two countries agreed under the MDT that an armed attack in the Pacific Area on either the Philippines or the US would be perilous and that they would respond to the common hazards in accordance with their own constitutional systems.
Aside from that, Teodoro and Austin discussed the US-Philippines alliance collaboration, promising to redouble efforts to increase bilateral training, interoperability, and assistance for the modernization of the Philippine Armed Forces.
According to the Pentagon, the two defense chiefs are hoping to meet in person soon.
Meanwhile, Chinese warships employed water cannons and risky maneuvers against Philippine vessels on August 5 to obstruct the latter's resupply operation to the BRP Sierra Madre in Ayungin Shoal.
