US Pledges $500 Million to Boost Philippines' Defense Amid China Tensions on July 30

Jul 30, 2024, 12:22 PM

The United States has pledged $500 million in military financing to the Philippines to modernize its armed forces. This significant investment, described as a 'once-in-a-generation' initiative by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, aims to strengthen the defense capabilities of the Philippines amid rising tensions with China. The announcement was made by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Austin during their visit to Manila on July 30. The funding is part of broader efforts to bolster the U.S.-Philippines alliance and counter China's maritime aggression in the South China Sea. The aid package also includes discussions on a proposed military intelligence-sharing pact between the two nations. This move comes ahead of the U.S. presidential election in November.