President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed his grave concern about China’s activities in the West Philippine Sea during his visit to Washington D.C. While on his way to meet with US Vice President Kamala Harris, a reporter asked him about China’s provocation in the South China Sea. He responded, “As concerned as you could possibly be.” According to Marcos, this issue is one of the major concerns that the Philippines has to face. During his visit, Marcos met with both Harris and US President Joe Biden to discuss how they can work together to protect the region. Beijing’s aggressive tactics have continued to threaten the Philippines, such as the recent near-collision of a Philippine patrol vessel and a Chinese Coast Guard ship at Ayungin Shoal. The US-Philippines alliance is strong, and both countries are committed to ensuring mutual prosperity, security, and friendship. Marcos expressed his gratitude to Harris for her leadership and the groundwork she laid for his meeting with Biden. In response, Biden assured Marcos that the US considers the Philippines their best partner in facing the problems they encounter.
