Reassuring Manila | Inquirer Opinion

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A Reassuring Welcome for Hegseth in Manila: A Glimpse of Hope in the Philippines' Relations with the US

In the Philippines, a new era of cooperation is unfolding, and the upcoming visit of US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is a strong indication of this development. The Philippines, once a bastion of US influence, had been receiving mixed signals from Washington in recent years. However, the arrival of Hegseth, coupled with the country's increasing confidence in engaging in security cooperation, sends a reassuring signal that the Philippines is back on the radar of American allies.

As the Philippines' man in Washington, Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez, aptly put it, the Philippines is “pulling itself up by its bootstraps” with its recent announcements of additional weapons purchases. This newfound assertiveness is a testament to the country's growing confidence in its defense capabilities, and a shift away from the days of relying too heavily on the United States.

The uncertainty surrounding the role of the United States in the region has been a major source of concern for many countries, including the Philippines. The recent change in language regarding the One China Policy and the continued uncertainty surrounding the US-PH relations have left some wondering if the US is still a reliable partner. However, Hegseth's visit is a promising sign that the Philippines will continue to be a key player in the US' Asia-Pacific strategy.

The upcoming visit is a feather in the cap of Romualdez, who has been a vocal advocate for the Philippines' defense interests. His efforts to articulate a confident approach to Trump 2.0 have been met with success, with potential Philippine investments in the US and the announcement of additional weapons purchases a testament to the country's growing confidence in its defense capabilities.

The exercises featuring US, Filipino, Australian, Japanese, Canadian, French, South Korean, and British troops are a significant development in the region's security landscape. The Philippines' decision to engage in security cooperation with multiple countries demonstrates its willingness to assume a more prominent role in regional security affairs. The country's self-proclaimed “minilateral network” with the US, Japan, Australia, and South Korea will only strengthen its position in the region.

The current mood in the region is largely characterized by unease and uncertainty. The United States' shifting priorities in the region, coupled with China's increasing assertiveness, have left many countries grappling with their place in the new order. The Philippines, with its growing confidence and assertiveness, is well-positioned to take advantage of these changes and carve out a more prominent role for itself in the region.

As the Philippines continues to strengthen its defense capabilities and build partnerships with other countries, it is clear that the US remains a crucial partner in this process. Hegseth's visit is a welcome development, and a sign that the Philippines is back on the radar of American allies. As the country continues to navigate the complex web of regional politics, it is essential to maintain a strong relationship with Washington, one that is built on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

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