Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III emphasized the United States’ ongoing commitment to strengthening alliances in the Indo-Pacific, following high-level meetings in Manila with Philippine officials. Austin and Secretary of State Anthony Blinken discussed enhancing technology, cyber cooperation, and economic resilience, including renewable energy and food security. They highlighted U.S. support with $500 million in foreign military financing and $125 million for Philippine infrastructure under the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement. The discussions underscored the U.S.-Philippine Mutual Defense Treaty and collaboration with allies like Australia and Japan, continuing President Biden’s strategy of sustained engagement in the region.–News Desk