US Open to Discuss Philippine Ship Escorts Amid South China Sea Tensions

Amid heightened tensions in the South China Sea, US Adm. Samuel Paparo has indicated the possibility of discussing US escorts for Philippine ships. This statement comes after recurrent clashes between Chinese and Philippine vessels. The Philippines is considering all options for protecting its troops while upholding legal constraints.

Amid rising tensions in the South China Sea, US Indo-Pacific Command head Adm. Samuel Paparo has signaled that the US military is open to consultations on potentially escorting Philippine ships. This could be a response to increasing hostilities between Chinese and Philippine forces in the contested waters.

Adm. Paparo made his remarks during a news conference in Manila, where he appeared alongside Philippine Armed Forces chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. The conversation occurred after an international military conference focused on China's assertive actions in the region.

Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. labeled China as the biggest disruptor of peace in Southeast Asia and called for stronger international opposition to its aggressive tactics. The ongoing tension underscores the complexity of implementing the 1951 defense treaty between the US and the Philippines.

(With inputs from agencies.)