World (AP)

US boosts alliance with the Philippines with military funding and pact amid concern over China | AP News

US boosts alliance with the Philippines with military funding and pact amid concern over China | AP News

A Philippine official said Washington officials in Manila for talks will announce $500 million in funding to boost Philippine defenses and progress in a proposed military pact. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were holding talks with their Filipino counterparts Tuesday as well as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

A Philippine official said Washington officials in Manila for talks will announce $500 million in funding to boost Philippine defenses and progress in a proposed military pact. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin were holding talks with their Filipino counterparts Tuesday as well as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.