US Vice President Kamala Harris and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Photo: AP

At the meeting, the Vice President reaffirmed the strength of the alliance between the United States and the Philippines and emphasized the importance of further expanding our security, economic, and people-to-people ties, according to the White House.

She welcomed President Marcos’ announcement of four new sites pursuant to the US-Philippines Enhanced Defense Cooperation agreement, which will enhance the Philippines’ security and drive investment to local communities.

The Vice President also reiterated the United States commitment to upholding international rules and norms, including in the South China Sea, and reiterated the United States commitment to the defense of the Philippines under Article IV of the 1951 US-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty. 

The two leaders also discussed maritime cooperation as well as the strengthening of the US-Philippine economic partnership and noted President Joe Biden's plan to send a trade and investment delegation to the Philippines to boost investment between the two countries.