During the Seoul Defense Dialogue, Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro cautioned that recent reductions in joint U.S.–South Korean military drills could present an opening for China to increase its influence across the Indo‑Pacific. Teodoro emphasized that Washington has given Manila “definite assurances” that its obligations under the U.S.–Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty remain unchanged.

U.S. exercise cuts and regional security

President Donald Trump’s decision last month to scale back the annual U.S.–South Korea exercises sparked debate among analysts about the credibility of U.S. deterrence in Asia. Teodoro acknowledged the possibility that China, which moves quickly to exploit gaps, might view the change as an opportunity to reassert its presence.

Philippines‑U.S. partnership remains strong

Despite the exercise cuts, Teodoro said there has been no reduction in U.S.–Philippine military activities. Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Manila has deepened defence cooperation with Washington, expanding joint exercises and granting U.S. forces greater access to Philippine bases as tensions rise in the South China Sea.

Broader security ties

The Philippines is also expanding security partnerships beyond the United States. Recent agreements with Canada and New Zealand, a visiting forces agreement with France, and ongoing negotiations with Britain illustrate Manila’s effort to build a regional security network.

China’s influence operations

Teodoro accused China of increasingly using influence operations alongside military pressure, noting that Beijing exploits democratic space and free media to spread distorted narratives. The Philippines is pursuing stronger espionage‑countering legislation to combat such tactics.

Economic talks with China remain tentative

When asked about President Marcos Jr.’s remarks on possible joint oil and gas exploration talks with China, Teodoro expressed doubt that any economic cooperation could be insulated from the longstanding sovereignty disputes in the South China Sea.

Submarine program under review

While in Seoul to discuss deeper defence cooperation with South Korea—one of the Philippines’ largest arms suppliers—Teodoro said the long‑discussed submarine acquisition program is still under review. Questions about mission requirements and the substantial infrastructure needed mean the program is “still a way off.”

Looking ahead

Teodoro concluded that China’s actions are motivating closer security cooperation among regional partners, which could ultimately lead to a more interconnected Indo‑Pacific security network.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.