02/19/2026
PH, US reaffirm defense ties in high-level meeting at Camp Aguinaldo
QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Philippines and the United States reinforced their long-standing defense partnership following a high-level courtesy call held Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Camp Aguinaldo.
Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. welcomed U.S. Assistant Secretary of War John Noh during the visit, where both officials discussed ways to deepen military cooperation between the two allies.
According to the Department of National Defense (DND), the meeting highlighted Manila’s firm commitment to strengthening defense collaboration with Washington, expanding strategic partnerships, and promoting credible deterrence capabilities.
Both sides also emphasized the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability, while upholding a rules-based international order in the Indo-Pacific region.
The courtesy call forms part of ongoing engagements between Philippine and U.S. defense officials aimed at enhancing interoperability, security coordination, and mutual defense readiness.
