MANILA, Philippines — Indonesian President Joko Widodo, during a bilateral meeting in Malacañan on Wednesday sought President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. support for the purchase of anti-submarine aircraft from Indonesia.
During the meeting, the two Association of Southeast Asian Nations leaders discussed several topics, including border control and defense.
“I also seek Your Excellency’s support related to the purchase of anti-submarine warfare aircraft for the Philippine Navy from Indonesia,” said Widodo.
Widodo, however, did not mention the specific aircrafts.
In 2023, the Philippine Navy sent anti-submarine warfare assets to the West Philippine Sea in a bid to bolster maritime defense capabilities.
The assets came from the Italian defense firm Leonardo.
Widodo’s offer comes amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea, as China continues to encroach on Philippine territory.
While Marcos mentioned that he and Widodo discussed the South China Sea situation, he provided no further information.