Año, US security adviser talk ‘recent developments’ in West PH Sea

Metro Manila, Philippines - National Security Adviser (NSA) Eduardo Año had a phone call with US counterpart Mike Waltz to discuss "recent developments" in the nations’ alliance amid sightings of two Chinese ships in the West Philippine Sea.

In a readout released Saturday, Año said the introductory call underscored the bilateral ties to “further accelerate progress” between Manila and Washington.

“The two NSAs exchanged views on the regional security situation, particularly in the South China Sea/West Philippine Sea,” the statement said.

This comes after two ships were spotted tailing a Philippine vessel 55 kilometers off Palawan.

In a video posted by fisherfolk leader Larry Hugo, the two Chinese ships were seen shadowing his vessel as it was en route from Pag-asa Island to Puerto Princesa City.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth earlier affirmed Washington’s commitment to its ties to Manila during his first visit to the country in March. https://www.newswatchplus.ph/news/2025/3/28/US-Pete-Hegseth-Manila-visit.html