Aren’t we already a target for China? - Marcos

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Bongbong Marcos said military modernization efforts and closer defense cooperation with the United States are a necessity to shield the country from its neighboring east Asian giant.

“Are we not already a target for China? So, I think that what we have to be thinking about is protecting the Philippines,” Marcos told reporters when asked about Chinese warnings over the planned US ammunition hub in Subic and the Luzon Economic Corridor.

Marcos explained that the ammunition production facility is part of the Self-Reliant Defense Program, which Manila intended to pursue even without US support.

“Kahit wala tayong katulong, gagawin talaga natin ‘yun. And they have offered to help. So, we will do that,” Marcos said.

[Translation: Even without partners, we are determined to push through with it. They offered to help, so we’re moving forward.]

During his bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump, Marcos said defense modernization is necessary in the evolving security in the South China Sea and the wider Indo-Pacific region.

“We would wish that it wasn’t necessary… but it is. That is what we are doing,” he said.

For his part, Trump downplayed any tension, saying Manila could maintain ties with Beijing.

“I don’t mind if he gets along with China because we’re getting along with China very well. We have a very good relationship,” Trump said.