The waters surrounding the Philippines are currently a focal point for two of the world’s leading superpowers, the United States and China, both vying for global dominance.
The Philippines plays a critical role in the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy, aimed at countering China’s growing military influence in the region.
With a long-standing mutual defense treaty with the United States and recent arrangements allowing U.S. troops to move supplies and intelligence into Philippine bases, the country has fortified its strategic importance.
At the same time, the Philippines values its relations with China, which is its geographic neighbor and largest trading partner.
Despite ongoing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, particularly over China’s extensive claims, Manila seeks to maintain a balanced diplomatic stance.
Philippines Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel Romualdez articulated this nuanced approach during a recent interview with NPR.
He described their strategy as “peace through deterrence,” aimed at preventing potential conflicts by strengthening alliances not just with the U.S., but also with other nations.
The ongoing Balikatan military exercises with the U.S. Armed Forces, now including participation from allies like Australia, Japan, and the UK, play a vital role in this strategy.
Leila Fadel, the interviewer, raised concerns about rising tensions in the South China Sea, questioning how the Philippines navigates its defense needs while dealing with economic dependencies on China.
Romualdez highlighted the historical context of the Philippines’ defense treaty with the U.S., emphasizing its significance as an “ironclad commitment” from both parties.
He insisted that mutual respect for territorial integrity is paramount, and while the Philippines recognizes China’s claims, it also expects reciprocity from Beijing.
To bolster its relationship with China, the Philippines is actively engaging in discussions on various issues beyond territorial disputes, including climate change and economic collaboration.
When asked about the implications of a potential conflict between the U.S. and China over Taiwan, Romualdez acknowledged the operational complexities and the need for consultation between both nations regarding the Philippines’ role.
He mentioned that the Philippines’ economic prosperity is inherently tied to its security and military modernization, which involves procuring American defense equipment.
Addressing recent trade discussions between U.S. and Philippine officials, Romualdez noted the substantial trade deficit of nearly $5 billion.
However, he projected that this deficit could be neutralized with procurements such as the F-16 fighter jets.
Romualdez reiterated the importance of economic growth in establishing the Philippines as a true partner to the United States.
In a shift to domestic affairs, Fadel brought up the ongoing legal issues surrounding former President Rodrigo Duterte, who is currently awaiting trial for alleged crimes against humanity linked to his controversial war on drugs.
Romualdez maintained that the matter should be left to the international court, hypothesizing that Duterte’s presidency addressed significant challenges relating to drug-related crime in the Philippines.
He noted that many Filipinos felt more secure during Duterte’s crackdown on illegal drugs.
When pressed about whether Duterte deserves the international scrutiny he faces, Romualdez refrained from comment, suggesting that public opinion within the Philippines should ultimately determine the former president’s reputation.
He drew a parallel to the United States’ political landscape, referencing Donald Trump’s electoral success despite facing multiple legal allegations.
As the Philippines continues to assert its position in a fractured geopolitical landscape, it remains to be seen how it will balance its obligations to the U.S. against its proximity and economic ties with China.
image source from：https://www.npr.org/2025/05/16/nx-s1-5379506/us-philippines-relations
