Philippines Sets Clear Condition for Invoking US Defense Pact in Event of Fatal Attack

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. specifies that the death of any Filipino serviceman by a foreign power will trigger the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has clarified that the Mutual Defense Treaty with the U.S. will be invoked if any Filipino serviceman is killed by a foreign attack.
Recent tensions with China in the South China Sea have heightened the relevance of the treaty's provisions.
The clarification comes after a series of meetings with U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, who reaffirmed the treaty's support.
Incidents involving Chinese forces using aggressive tactics against Philippine vessels have underscored the ongoing disputes in the region.
The Mutual Defense Treaty includes protection for armed forces, public vessels, and aircraft in the Pacific, including the South China Sea.