National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke today with Philippine National Security Advisor Eduardo M. Año. Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Año discussed the continued historic momentum in the U.S.-Philippines Alliance, including the recent announcement of $500 million in U.S. Foreign Military Financing from the FY 2024 Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, which, working with the U.S. Congress, will help modernize the Philippine armed forces and coast guard. Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Año discussed how this additional security assistance can bolster U.S.-Philippines cooperation in support of international maritime law in the South China Sea.
Mr. Sullivan also condemned the People's Republic of China's deliberate collision with two Philippine Coast Guard vessels operating lawfully near Sabina Shoal in the Philippines 'exclusive economic zone on August 19. Mr. Sullivan reiterated the ironclad U.S. commitment to the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft-to include those of its Coast Guard-anywhere in the South China Sea.
