“Nations have no permanent friends or allies, they only have permanent interests.” – Lord Palmerston
The waves of the Pacific have carried many alliances, but few are as deeply woven into history as the ties between the United States and the Philippines. It’s a bond forged in war, shaped by geopolitics, and strengthened by shared struggles. Manila, 1945—a city reduced to ruins, but not its spirit. American and Filipino soldiers, side by side, fighting to reclaim the islands from Japanese forces. Blood spilled, sacrifices made, and a partnership sealed in fire.
February 28, 2025, in the Oval Office, a different kind of battle unfolds. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engage in a heated exchange, with Trump warning Zelenskyy that he was “gambling with world war three” and cutting their meeting short after open antagonism. This confrontation highlights the precarious state of U.S. support for Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.
Thousands of miles away, the Philippines watches these developments with keen interest. China’s aggressive maneuvers in the South China Sea pose a direct threat to Philippine sovereignty. The memory of shared sacrifices during World War II serves as a reminder of the enduring alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines. As Ukraine seeks unwavering support from the U.S. in its struggle against Russian aggression, the Philippines similarly relies on American backing to counterbalance China’s expansionist ambitions
In this intricate geopolitical landscape, the question arises: Is the U.S.-Philippines relationship an “iron brotherhood” forged through shared history and mutual respect, or is it primarily a strategic alliance formed in response to common adversaries? The answer may lie in how both nations navigate these contemporary challenges, drawing strength from their past while adapting to an uncertain future.
Iron Brother or Legacy of Colonialism?
“The past is never dead. It’s not even past.” – William Faulkner
The story of US-Philippines ties is one of deep entanglement, marked by loyalty, sacrifice, and shadows of the past. The year is 1898, the Philippines, after centuries under Spanish rule, is on the brink of self-determination. But instead of independence, the islands were handed over to the United States in the Treaty of Paris. What followed was a brutal Philippine-American War (1899-1902), where resistance was crushed, yet a foundation was laid, one that would define relations for over a century.
Under American rule (1898-1946), the Philippines became a laboratory of Western influence. English replaced Spanish as the primary language of government and education. The University of the Philippines was established in 1908, shaping generations of leaders. Democracy, legal systems, and even pop culture bore American fingerprints. But the real test of brotherhood came during World War II.
December 1941, Japan invades. American and Filipino forces fight a desperate battle in Bataan and Corregidor. The infamous Bataan Death March saw 75,000 Filipino and American prisoners endure unimaginable horrors. But the tide turned. In 1945, US forces returned, liberating Manila at the cost of 100,000 Filipino civilian lives. The war cemented a shared narrative of sacrifice, one that still echoes today in every military exercise and diplomatic handshake.
By 1951, this bond took legal form in the Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT), pledging that an attack on one would be met with retaliation from the other. This agreement has since underpinned every major military engagement between the two nations.
But was this alliance built on true partnership, or was it a continuation of colonial dominance? Not all Filipinos embraced America’s extended influence. The US maintained large military bases, Clark Air Base and Subic Bay Naval Base, for decades, effectively treating the Philippines as a forward outpost in the Cold War. By the late 20th century, resentment grew. In 1991, amid nationalist protests, the Philippine Senate voted to close US bases. The decision was seen as a bold assertion of sovereignty.
Yet, security realities forced a shift. The Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) in 1999 and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) in 2014 allowed US troops to rotate through Philippine territory, a strategic response to China’s rise.
Another point of contention? America’s past support of authoritarian rule. The US backed Ferdinand Marcos’ dictatorship (1965-1986) despite rampant corruption and human rights abuses, prioritizing military cooperation over democratic ideals. The scars of that era remain, fueling skepticism about Washington’s true commitment to Philippine interests.
Originally signed in 1951, the MDT is the backbone of US-Philippines security cooperation. But for decades, its effectiveness was questioned. Would the US actually come to the Philippines’ aid in a crisis? That question gained urgency as China ramped up its South China Sea aggression, building artificial islands and militarizing disputed waters.
The answer came in 2019 when former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo explicitly confirmed that the MDT applies to attacks in the South China Sea. Fast forward to 2023, and US-Philippines military drills reached a historic high, with 17,600 troops participating in Balikatan exercises, a clear signal to Beijing. Additionally, four new EDCA sites were approved in 2023, bringing the total to nine strategic locations where the US can preposition forces.
The US-Philippines relationship is neither purely an iron brotherhood nor just a cold strategic calculation, it’s both. Rooted in history, tested by war, and complicated by past betrayals, the alliance now stands at a crossroads. With China’s growing aggression, the Philippines is once again looking to its oldest ally. But this time, the partnership is on different terms, one shaped by mutual necessity, not colonial hierarchy. The question remains: will history repeat itself, or will the Philippines carve out a truly sovereign path while keeping America as a security partner?
“The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” – Ancient Proverb
The South China Sea, a vast expanse rich in resources and strategic significance, has become a focal point of geopolitical tension. A Filipino fishing vessel navigating these contested waters, suddenly confronted by a formidable Chinese coast guard ship demanding its immediate departure. Such confrontations, once sporadic, have become alarmingly frequent, compelling the Philippines to strengthen its alliance with the United States. Is this renewed partnership a testament to enduring camaraderie, or is it primarily driven by shared concerns over a common adversary?
Geopolitical Realities: China’s Escalating Assertiveness
In recent years, China’s transformation from an economic powerhouse to a formidable military presence has been unmistakable. The South China Sea, through which approximately $3.37 trillion in global trade transits annually, has witnessed China’s expansive claims, marked by the controversial “Nine-Dash Line” that encompasses nearly 90% of the sea. Despite the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling invalidating these claims, China has persisted, constructing artificial islands equipped with military installations.
The Philippines, directly impacted by these developments, has faced numerous incursions into its territorial waters. In 2024, China increased its patrols near the Philippine-occupied Thitu Island from 206 days in 2023 to 241 days, highlighting its intensified presence. Such actions have prompted Manila to reassess its security strategies and alliances.
In response to escalating tensions, the United States and the Philippines have revitalized their defense collaboration. The Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) has been a cornerstone of this renewed partnership. In February 2025, the U.S. has allocated an additional $128 million for infrastructure projects across seven EDCA sites, complementing the $109 million previously designated for base improvements and military equipment.
Joint military exercises have also intensified. In January 2025, the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the U.S. Navy conducted a bilateral Maritime Cooperative Activity (MCA) in the South China Sea, focusing on joint patrols and interoperability. This exercise underscores a mutual commitment to regional stability and deterring potential aggression.
Beyond military collaboration, both nations are united in their dedication to maintaining a rules-based international order. The U.S. routinely conducts Freedom of Navigation Operations (FONOPs), challenging excessive maritime claims and ensuring open sea lanes. This commitment is crucial for the Philippines, whose economy and security are intertwined with unimpeded access to maritime routes.
The U.S.-Philippines partnership, rooted in historical ties, has been reinvigorated by contemporary challenges posed by China’s actions in the South China Sea. This alliance, blending defense cooperation with a shared vision for regional stability, exemplifies the adage, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” As both nations navigate the complexities of the Indo-Pacific landscape, their collaboration stands as a bulwark against unilateral attempts to reshape the regional order.
Economic and People-to-People Ties Between the United States and the Philippines
The relationship between the United States and the Philippines extends beyond strategic and military alliances; it is deeply rooted in robust economic interactions and vibrant people-to-people connections. These facets not only enhance bilateral ties but also contribute significantly to the prosperity and cultural richness of both nations.
Trade and Investment
In 2024, the trade in goods between the United States and the Philippines demonstrated a dynamic economic partnership. U.S. exports to the Philippines amounted to approximately $9.3 billion, reflecting a diverse range of goods and services. Conversely, U.S. imports from the Philippines were higher, totaling $14.2 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $4.9 billion for the United States. This trade imbalance emphasizes the competitive advantage of Philippine exports in the U.S. market.
Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) also plays a pivotal role in the economic ties between the two countries. In 2023, U.S. FDI in the Philippines stood at $6.2 billion, marking a 15.7% increase from the previous year. These investments are predominantly concentrated in sectors such as manufacturing, professional, scientific, and technical services, and wholesale trade.
Development Assistance and Economic Cooperation
The United States has been a longstanding partner in the Philippines’ development journey. Through various agencies, including the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. has provided assistance aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth, enhancing education, and improving healthcare systems in the Philippines. This development assistance not only fosters economic progress but also strengthens the institutional capacities of the Philippines, thereby reinforcing the foundation for a resilient society.
Reinforcing Security Through Economic Ties
Economic interdependence between the U.S. and the Philippines serves as a cornerstone for their security alliance. Robust trade and investment create mutual stakes in each other’s stability and prosperity, aligning economic interests with security objectives. This interconnectedness ensures that both nations are collaboratively invested in addressing regional challenges and maintaining peace, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
People-to-People Connections
The Filipino-American community is a vibrant and integral part of the United States’ multicultural tapestry. As one of the largest Asian-American groups, Filipino-Americans have made significant contributions across various sectors, including healthcare, education, arts, and public service. Their active participation in community organizations and civic activities fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino culture within the broader American society.
Cultural exchanges between the U.S. and the Philippines have been instrumental in strengthening bilateral relations. Programs facilitating student and professional exchanges enable individuals to immerse themselves in each other’s cultures, promoting mutual respect and collaboration. Educational initiatives, such as scholarships and academic partnerships, have empowered countless Filipinos to pursue higher education in the U.S., contributing to the intellectual and cultural enrichment of both nations.
In the digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools in shaping public perceptions and fostering connections. For the Filipino diaspora, platforms like Twitter serve as virtual communities where individuals engage in discussions about identity, heritage, and current affairs. These online interactions not only strengthen ties within the Filipino-American community but also bridge gaps between Filipinos in the homeland and those abroad, creating a global network of shared experiences and support.
In summary, the multifaceted economic and people-to-people ties between the United States and the Philippines are foundational to their enduring partnership. These connections, encompassing robust trade relations, substantial investments, cultural exchanges, and dynamic community interactions, continue to enrich both societies and fortify their alliance in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Conclusion: A Strategic Necessity
The US-Philippines alliance is a product of history, shared security concerns, and deep economic and cultural ties. From colonial rule to World War II, and now modern defense agreements like the MDT and EDCA, their partnership has evolved to counter emerging threats, most notably, China’s assertiveness in the South China Sea.
Beyond defense, strong trade, investment, and a vast Filipino-American diaspora reinforce this bond. As both nations navigate shifting geopolitics, balancing deterrence with diplomacy will be crucial. Ultimately, this alliance is no longer just historical, it is a strategic necessity shaping the Indo-Pacific’s future.
