2 hours ago
2
Upgrade to High-Speed Internet for only ₱1499/month!
Enjoy up to 100 Mbps fiber broadband, perfect for browsing, streaming, and gaming.
Visit Suniway.ph to learn
Michael Punongbayan - The Philippine Star
June 7, 2026 | 12:00am
Chinese Coast Guard vessel 5901, also known as the "monster ship," when it was spotted near the waters of Zambales on Saturday, January 18.
Jay Tarriela via X (formerly Twitter)
MANILA, Philippines — The United States has reaffirmed its various commitments to support the Philippines, including continuing efforts to ensure peace and security in the South China Sea (SCS).
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro in Washington over the weekend to discuss a range of bilateral economic and security priorities.
In a statement yesterday, US State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott said the two officials talked about the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship this year as well as efforts to advance peace and security in the SCS, among other matters.
During the meeting, Rubio reaffirmed the US commitment to developing the Luzon Economic Corridor and exploring ways to address energy challenges in the region, Pigott said.
Rubio also “emphasized the strength of the United States-Philippines alliance and continued close cooperation as the two countries commemorate 80 years of diplomatic relations and 75 years as allies in 2026.”
Lazaro, in a post on X, said she had a productive bilateral meeting with Rubio, with the two of them engaging in “discussions on our strategic partnership across multiple fronts.”
“Our dialogue focused on strengthening economic diplomacy. We also reaffirmed our strong maritime cooperation and shared commitment to maintaining regional peace and stability, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic channels to de-escalate tensions,” she said.
In a separate post, Lazaro said she likewise met with US Ambassador-designate to the Philippines Lee Marc Lipton “ahead of his arrival in Manila this month. Looking forward to a vibrant chapter of Philippines-US partnership.”
