Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged in discussions focusing on Philippine-U.S. relations, regional developments, and economic cooperation during their meeting at Malaca±ang on Wednesday. The conversation also touched upon the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, with China being a part of the broader discussion.

According to Philippines News Agency, Rubio, in Manila for the 59th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting and Related Summits, paid a courtesy call on Marcos in his capacity as this year's ASEAN chair. Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose Manuel 'Babe' Romualdez highlighted that the meeting primarily focused on fortifying bilateral cooperation in defense and the economy.

Romualdez shared with reporters that President Marcos expressed gratitude for the continued support from the United States across various fronts, emphasizing both defense and economic collaboration. The meeting was also marked by Rubio's delivery of personal greetings and best wishes from U.S. President Donald Trump to Marcos, with hopes that Trump might visit in November for the ASEAN Leaders Summit.

While the topic of the West Philippine Sea was only briefly mentioned, Romualdez noted that China is a constant topic in discussions between the Philippines and the U.S. due to regional security concerns. He emphasized the importance of persuading China to respect the rule of international law and the law of the seas.

The meeting also delved into economic initiatives, with Marcos expressing satisfaction over the progress of key Philippine-U.S. economic projects, such as the Luzon Economic Corridor and the U.S.-backed Pax Silica project. Romualdez conveyed Marcos' optimism that these initiatives would bolster the Philippine economy and contribute to the country's aspirations for economic prosperity and security.

The discussion occurred a day after tensions resurfaced between the Philippines and China, following an incident involving the Chinese Coast Guard and Philippine Navy personnel near Ayungin Shoal. This event underscores the longstanding territorial disputes between the two nations.

The Philippines and the United States, allies under the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty, have recently expanded cooperation in various sectors, including defense, infrastructure, trade, and strategic supply chains.