Philippines and Australia Strengthen Ties Amid China's Regional Assertiveness

President Marcos vows to defend sovereignty, highlighting the strategic importance of the South China Sea.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasizes the importance of deepening defense and economic ties with Australia amidst China's growing influence in the region.
Marcos vows not to cede 'one square inch' of Philippine territory, highlighting the country's firm stance on sovereignty in the South China Sea.
The Philippines and Australia have initiated their first joint sea and air patrols in the South China Sea to counter China's assertiveness.
Marcos describes the Philippines as being on the 'frontline' of maritime disputes, underlining the strategic significance of the South China Sea for regional and global peace.
China's naval expansion and territorial claims in the South China Sea pose challenges to regional stability, according to Marcos.