In a historic trilateral summit, President Joe Biden hosted Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House, solidifying the United States' unwavering support for its Asian allies amidst their separate territorial disputes with China.

During the summit, President Biden emphasized the "ironclad" nature of the US commitment to the defense of Japan and the Philippines. He underscored the importance of solidarity in forging a better future for all and expressed concerns over China's actions in the South China Sea.

Both Japan and the Philippines have ongoing territorial disputes with China. Japan's conflict revolves around the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, while the Philippines' disputes are concentrated in the South China Sea, particularly involving Second Thomas Shoal.

In the 1990s, the Philippines grounded an old navy transport ship on Second Thomas Shoal to reinforce its claim to the area. However, China asserts sovereignty over the shoal, leading to tensions between the two nations. Recent clashes have occurred when China Coast Guard ships fired water cannons at Philippine resupply boats, causing injuries and damage.

President Biden made it clear that any attack on Philippine aircraft, vessels, or armed forces in the South China Sea would invoke the US-Philippines mutual defense treaty. This 1951 treaty stipulates that both parties will defend each other if attacked by a third party.

The trilateral summit aimed to address Chinese aggression and rising concerns over Taiwan, the South China Sea, North Korea's nuclear provocations, and its relationship with Russia. The meeting reflected the US administration's efforts to strengthen alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.

Japan, a key ally in the region, has been actively collaborating with the US. Prime Minister Kishida has shown willingness to counter Chinese actions, significantly shifting Japan's defense posture and providing support to Ukraine amid Russian aggression. Japan has committed to increasing defense spending and acquiring American Tomahawk missiles.

President Marcos highlighted the shared vision of a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific, emphasizing democracy, good governance, and the rule of law as common values among the three nations. This partnership further strengthens ties between the US and the Philippines, which had undergone strain during former President Rodrigo Duterte's term.

During the summit, several announcements were made to bolster the Philippines amid ongoing territorial conflicts. The White House confirmed a new infrastructure project in the Philippines, including the development of a rail and shipping corridor between Clark Air Base and Subic Naval Base. This move aims to send a clear message to Beijing and promote economic growth in the region.

Additionally, the US plans to enhance the Filipino military's capabilities through an infrastructure investment similar to the one announced in India. The US, alongside Japan, will provide funding for Open Radio Access Network technology, and a Coast Guard patrol in the Indo-Pacific is scheduled for the coming year.

The trilateral summit sends a strong signal of support and resolve from President Biden, Prime Minister Kishida, and President Marcos. The United States remains committed to defending its allies and maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region despite China's assertive stance.

The developments from the summit underscore the growing importance of regional alliances in the face of mounting geopolitical challenges. The US, Japan, and the Philippines are joining forces to protect shared interests and promote a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.