The recent visit by the US defence secretary to the Philippines has been overshadowed by a national security scandal, with Democrats urging him to resign.

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        During his visit to Manila, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington's commitment to the Philippines in countering threats from China. This assurance came despite Hegseth's involvement in a national security scandal in the US.


        Hegseth, who is entangled in a national security scandal back in the US, emphasized the need for deterrence in the region during his meeting with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr on Friday.

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        Hegseth highlighted the importance of allies standing together to deter conflict and ensure free navigation in the South China Sea, praising the Philippines for firmly defending its interests in the contested waters.


        In recent months, tensions have escalated as the Philippines accused China of dangerous military maneuvers in the South China Sea, a crucial waterway claimed by Beijing.


        According to reports in February, a Chinese helicopter flew within three meters of a Philippine patrol plane above the disputed Scarborough Shoal.


        Under their mutual defense treaty, the US is obligated to assist the Philippines if its forces, ships, and aircraft come under an armed attack in the Pacific, including in the South China Sea.


        President Marcos emphasized that the United States remains the greatest force for peace in the region during his meeting with Hegseth. Since taking office in June 2022, Marcos has aligned his country closely with the US, diverging from his predecessor, Rodrigo Duterte, who had strengthened ties with China.


        Before Hegseth's visit, China's Defense Ministry spokesperson Wu Qian expressed opposition to interference from outside countries in the South China Sea.


        Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun warned the Philippines against opening the door to predators, suggesting that those who willingly serve as chess pieces will eventually be abandoned.


        Hegseth's visit to the Philippines precedes the allies' largest annual combat exercises, and he is also scheduled to travel to Japan as part of his regional tour.


        Meanwhile, back in Washington, Democrats have called for Hegseth's resignation following the revelation that he used the Signal messaging app to send war plans on Yemen to other senior Trump officials earlier this month.

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        Critics argue that the messages, which were accidentally sent to a journalist, could have endangered the lives of US military personnel preparing to launch strikes against Houthi rebels.

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Source: https://www.euronews.com/2025/03/28/pete-hegseth-pledges-us-support-for-manila-against-china