WASHINGTON — The US reaffirmed its support for the Philippines in defending its sovereign rights, the Pentagon announced Monday.

This declaration came during a meeting between Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Manila, part of their trip to the Indo-Pacific region.

"The three officials underscored the historic strength of the U.S.-Philippines Alliance, which both countries are expanding and modernizing in support of a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific," said Deputy Spokeswoman Sabrina Singh in a statement.

During the meeting, the officials discussed ways to enhance cooperation with like-minded nations such as Australia and Japan to uphold shared principles, including the rule of law, freedom of the seas, and respect for territorial sovereignty.

The meeting also reaffirmed the US and the Philippines' enduring commitment to stand "shoulder-to-shoulder" as allies to bring security, prosperity, and stability to the Indo-Pacific region, according to the statement. — Agencies