Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. thanked the United States for its recently delivered $80 million defense assistance, saying the funds have already been allocated for specific military requirements.
He also said the Philippines expects additional support under the Philippine Enhanced Resilience Act (PERA), which could provide up to $2.5 billion in military financing over five years.
Teodoro credited US Ambassador Lee Lipton for supporting the initiative and acknowledged other partner countries assisting the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
Speaking at the Ilocano Dialogue on the West Philippine Sea, he stressed that national resilience requires public awareness, resolve, and credible deterrence alongside military modernization.
He also urged young Filipinos to promote informed discussions on national security and help defend the country’s maritime rights.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 20, 2026
TEODORO WELCOMES $80-M US DEFENSE AID, EYES MORE FUNDING
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