PH, US tackle West PH Sea developments during courtesy call

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States (US) have discussed developments in the West Philippine Sea among other bilateral and global issues of mutual concern, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Wednesday.

US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Ambassador Victoria Nuland paid a courtesy call on DFA Secretary Enrique Manalo on March 6.

Had a good mtg today w/ @UnderSecStateP Victoria Nuland on bilateral, regional & global issues of mutual concern. PH & US share the goal of a secure, peaceful & economically-resilient region @DFAPHL pic.twitter.com/snqYUVQlsx

— Enrique A. Manalo 🇵🇭 (@SecManalo) March 6, 2023

“The two officials underscored the importance of the PH-U.S. Alliance and partnership to promoting peace, stability and resilience in the region,” the DFA said in a readout.

“Secretary Manalo and Ambassador Nuland exchanged views on recent developments in the West Philippine Sea/South China Sea, as well as other bilateral and global issues of mutual concern, with an eye towards identifying concrete measures that the two countries can pursue jointly, and together with other like-minded partners,” it added.

READ: AFP tells China to restrain forces in the West Philippine Sea

In recent weeks, there were several reports of China’s harassment and intrusion in the West Philippine Sea, including the directing of a military-grade laser that temporarily blinded Filipino crew members.

READ: 44 Chinese ships spotted in waters off Pag-asa

The meeting, the DFA said, was also an avenue to preview plans for the upcoming 2+2 Ministerial Meeting next month which will be hosted by the US.

READ: China harasses Philippine Coast Guard vessel with laser

The meeting will be co-led by the DFA and the Department of National Defense and the US Departments of State and Defense.

“Both sides agreed to expand the scope of the 2+2 to include broader security considerations, such as food security, energy, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and supply chains,” the DFA noted.

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