The U.S. military is considering the possibility of escorting Philippine ships in the disputed South China Sea as tensions escalate between China and the Philippines. Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, indicated that such operations could be explored under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty between the U.S. and the Philippines. Paparo made these remarks during a news conference in Manila on Tuesday, following an international military conference where China’s assertive actions in the South China Sea were a central topic.
Paparo’s comments come at a time when Chinese coast guard, navy, and suspected militia vessels have increasingly clashed with Philippine ships, particularly during attempts to resupply Filipino forces stationed on remote islands claimed by both countries. These confrontations have led to injuries among Filipino sailors and damage to their vessels, raising questions about whether the Philippines should invoke its defense treaty with the United States.
“Certainly, within the context of consultations, every option between the two sovereign nations in terms of our mutual defense, escort of one vessel to the other, is an entirely reasonable option within our Mutual Defense Treaty,” Paparo said, though he did not elaborate on specific plans.
Just days earlier, Chinese vessels reportedly blocked Philippine ships from delivering supplies to a coast guard ship at Sabina Shoal, an area claimed by both nations.
Philippine Armed Forces chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. responded cautiously to the idea of U.S. escorts, citing legal and constitutional constraints. “The attitude of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as dictated by the Philippine laws, is for us to first rely on ourselves,” Brawner said. He emphasized that the Philippines would explore all available options to achieve its mission before seeking external assistance.
The discussions around possible U.S. involvement come as the Philippines faces increasing pressure from Chinese actions in the region. Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. described China as “the biggest disruptor of peace” in Southeast Asia and called for stronger international condemnation and multilateral action against Beijing’s aggression.
China, for its part, has defended its actions in the region, accusing other actors of provocations and infringing on its claimed territories. The Chinese foreign ministry has pushed back against international criticism, insisting that its actions are in defense of its sovereignty.
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