U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin shakes hands with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr during a courtesy call at the Malacanang Palace in Manila, Philippines, November 18, 2024. Gerard Carreon/Pool via REUTERS Gerard Carreon/Pool via REUTERS

Amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin pledged unwavering support for the Philippines and condemned China's actions against the nation. The U.S. has committed $500 million in military funding to the Philippines,

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Tuesday the Mutual Defense Treaty between Washington and Manila applies to armed attack in the South China Sea. The behavior of China has been concerning,

As the ramming of ships and use of water cannons dominated discussions, questions arose about the legality of China's actions A recent landmark dialogue on the South China Sea has underscored the lingering ideological divisions over the disputed waterway,