On February 25, 2025, the Philippines welcomed the US’s decision to exempt military assistance from an aid freeze, signaling strong treaty partnerships. The US allocated approximately $5.3 billion in foreign aid, including significant funds for the modernization of Philippine security forces. Officials reassured that funding for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement sites would continue, highlighting the importance of Joint US-Philippine defense initiatives.
On February 25, 2025, the Philippines announced its satisfaction with the US decision to exempt specific foreign military assistance from an aid freeze enforced by President Donald Trump. This underscores the countries’ dedication to their treaty alliance and enhances defense cooperation and interoperability. The US released $5.3 billion in frozen foreign aid, with significant portions directed towards security initiatives.
The exemptions include $336 million for modernizing Philippine security forces and $870 million for Taiwan. Other funds were allocated for Ukraine’s security needs. Before these exemptions were granted, US District Judge Amir Ali ordered a temporary lift of the funding freeze on February 13, intervening before the aid arrangements were finalized.
The US aid freeze was initiated through an internal memo by Secretary of State Marco Rubio soon after Trump took office, halting nearly all foreign aid except for specific programs, particularly those assisting Israel and Egypt. The Philippines has been proactive in advocating for its security funding, illustrating the importance of its defense partnership with the US.
According to Philippine Ambassador to the US, Jose Manuel Romualdez, “We are very pleased with this development after we worked on getting this exemption. This is another significant sign that our strong partnership and alliance with the United States remains intact with the new Trump administration.” The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed the waiver of US military financing aimed at the Philippines.
Despite previous concerns over the aid freeze impacting various initiatives, officials reassured that funding for the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) sites would remain unaffected. Established in 2014, Edca permits rotational access for US forces, facilitating various military and humanitarian activities.
Foreign Undersecretary Eduardo de Vega stated, “They will not suddenly abandon the Edca sites.” He emphasized the mutual importance of Edca for both nations’ interests. US military assistance is vital for enhancing the Philippines’ military modernization, especially amidst rising tensions with China in the region.
Last year, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III and Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged $500 million to support the modernization of the Philippine Armed Forces and Coast Guard, reaffirming the continued financial commitment and cooperation with the Philippines in defense initiatives.
The US’s exemption of certain military assistance from the aid freeze reinforces the strong tactical alliance between the United States and the Philippines. The release of funds demonstrates a commitment to enhancing security collaboration and addressing mutual concerns, particularly in the face of geopolitical tensions in the region. Both nations remain focused on strengthening military partnerships and advancing modernization efforts for the Philippine armed forces.
Original Source: asianews.network
