The United States has reaffirmed many times its “ironclad” commitment to help defend the Philippines, its oldest ally in the region, in case of an attack on its vessel, aircraft, or personnel anywhere in the Pacific, including the West Philippine Sea.
The Philippines cannot afford to be the weakest link. It has to prepare for future wars. It has to modernize quickly.
More affluent countries like Singapore allocate more than 3 percent of GDP to defense spending. Singapore has one of the most modern and capable armed forces in the region. Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam also outspend the Philippines. By Manny Mogato