U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has condemned China's dangerous actions against the Philippines and renewed a warning that the United States would defend its treaty ally if Filipino forces come under an armed attack in the disputed South China Sea.

Donald Trump’s return to the White House has stirred up questions about the future of Washington’s support for the Philippines.

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin III will observe a Philippine Navy tech demonstration showcasing T-12 unmanned surface vessels, a key capability used to protect sovereignty and operations throughout the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea,

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Tuesday the U.S. alliance with the Philippines would transcend changes in administrations, as he reiterated his support for the Southeast Asian nation.

United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin will visit Manila this week to "advance security objectives" and meet Filipino and American troops, the US State Department said on Wednesday,.