The United States has announced an unprecedented $500 million in military funding to the Philippines to bolster its defenses amid rising tensions with China over the South China Sea. This funding, described as a 'once in a generation investment,' aims to modernize the Philippine military and coast guard, with $125 million earmarked for improving military bases. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and other top officials, reaffirming Washington's unwavering commitment to its oldest treaty ally in Asia. The visit underscores the strategic importance of the Philippines to US security interests in the region and comes after a violent encounter between Filipino and Chinese forces. Marcos highlighted the importance of agile responses and open communication lines in addressing regional challenges.