A resolution recognizing the 74th anniversary of the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Philippines and the strong bilateral security alliance between our two nations in the wake of escalating aggression and political lawfare by the People's Republic of China in the South China Sea.

This resolution celebrates the 74th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty between the United States and the Philippines, acknowledging the enduring strength of their bilateral security alliance. It highlights the deep historical ties and strategic interests that underpin the partnership, which was forged during World War II and formalized through agreements like the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement . The resolution emphasizes the Mutual Defense Treaty as a crucial deterrent against the People's Republic of China's increasing territorial aggression in the South China Sea. It details China's unlawful "nine-dash line" claims, its construction of militarized artificial islands, and its rejection of the 2016 arbitral tribunal decision invalidating these claims. The Senate condemns China's aggressive tactics, including ramming, water cannons, and military-grade lasers against Philippine vessels, and its denial of humanitarian supplies to Philippine forces. It specifically cites recent incidents of Chinese coast guard and navy aggression, such as brandishing knives and dangerous maneuvers near Scarborough Shoal. Crucially, the resolution reaffirms that Article IV of the Mutual Defense Treaty extends to armed attacks on the Armed Forces, public vessels, or aircraft of the Philippines, including the Coast Guard, anywhere in the South China Sea. It considers aggression in the Philippines' internationally recognized exclusive economic zone a direct assault on its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The resolution urges the President to take necessary actions to restore deterrence and help the Philippines defend itself, while supporting the unwavering U.S. commitment to deepening security cooperation. This includes advancing Philippine defense modernization, enhancing interoperability through exercises and training, and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.