U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will make his first visit to the Philippines next week for a security dialogue, focusing on advancing security objectives with Filipino leaders.
Hegseth is also scheduled to meet with both U.S. and Philippine forces during his visit, which follows trips to Hawaii and Guam.
The visit is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen alliances in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.
According to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, this trip highlights Washington’s commitment to enhancing regional security through cooperation with like-minded nations.
The visit coincides with the upcoming annual Balikatan exercises between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. military.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 23, 2025
