Hegseth Says Deterrence Necessary in Face of China Threats During Philippines Visit

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States and the Philippines must ‘stand shoulder-to-shoulder’ in the face of threats posed by China.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth (L), with Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines General Romeo Brawner Jr., inspect honor guards during his visit at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon city, Philippines, on March 28, 2025. Ezra Acayan/Getty Images

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has said that deterrence is necessary in the South China Sea considering the threat from communist China, and he emphasized that the United States and the Philippines must stand “shoulder-to-shoulder” to ensure stability in the region.

Hegseth made the Philippines the first stop of his Asia trip on March 28, followed by Japan, a move that Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said sent a “strong message” about Washington’s commitment to their alliance.