Philippines, US Sign Key Military Agreement

The Philippines and the United States have signed the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), enhancing their defense cooperation amid tensions with China in the Indo-Pacific region. Signed by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the agreement allows for real-time sharing of classified military intelligence and technology. This move strengthens their longstanding security alliance against China's assertive actions in the South China Sea and its aggressive stance towards Taiwan. GSOMIA does not compel information sharing but facilitates it, ensuring protection according to the releasing country's standards. The pact was signed at Camp Aguinaldo during Austin's visit, which also included meetings with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and a planned visit to the western island of Palawan. The agreement is seen as a critical step towards deepening interoperability between the two nations' defense forces.