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Gilberto Teodoro Jnr

Gilberto Teodoro Jnr is a seasoned Filipino politician, lawyer, and business executive. He currently serves as the nation’s Defence Secretary, a role he previously held from 2007 to 2009, becoming the youngest appointee at the time. His career includes three terms as a Member of Congress, where he authored numerous bills. He also chaired the National Disaster Coordinating Council, demonstrating expertise in disaster risk management. Teodoro’s work highlights a focus on defence reform, military modernisation, and upholding national sovereignty, particularly in maritime security. He is known for his extensive public and private sector experience.

Gilberto Teodoro Jnr

How does an outgunned air force defend the South China Sea?

Manila is spending billions to transform its underfunded air arm into a maritime shield against Beijing.

.css-1pcrwvc{color:#2aa191;}Opinion | Philippines’ belligerence towards China out of step with Asean trend

China’s ban on Philippine defence chief, family seen as warning shot to Manila

China sanctions Philippine defence chief Gilberto Teodoro

Chinese foreign ministry says Teodoro is banned from entering China because of his ‘erroneous remarks’ on the country.

How Japan, Philippines are building a maritime security front against China

Tokyo-Manila defence cooperation is linking Pacific flashpoints, with broad implications for Beijing, analysts say.

Beijing to Manila: don’t let ‘clowns’ sabotage ties with ‘political theatrics’

Beijing condemns remarks by Philippine defence chief, who says Manila is under ‘severe threat’ from China despite fertiliser and fuel offers.

Philippines says Beijing main hurdle to South China Sea code of conduct

Addressing the Shangri-La Dialogue, defence chief Teodoro blamed China for stalling the pact and stressed Asean’s unity on the issue.

More than a missile? Why the Philippines wants Japan’s old Type 88

Manila’s military already operates superior weapons, but analysts say Tokyo’s Cold War-era hardware still has something to offer.

Philippines shifts defence strategy with Japan, eyes wider security focus

Defence chief Gilberto Teodoro says the Diaoyu Islands are now considered a ‘serious concern’ and the Balikatan drills will also be expanded.

Japan, Philippines to fast-track transfer of navy destroyers

The two countries’ shared grievances over Chinese territorial claims have seen them draw increasingly close in recent years.

How the Philippines became Japan’s closest security partner in Southeast Asia

Japan’s participation in the Balikatan drill and its new weapon export rules are set to further defence ties between the two countries.

Why Philippines may face ‘strategic dilemma’ over Nato partnership, US demands

Manila has been forging closer ties with several Nato members amid tensions between the transatlantic security alliance and the US.

Beyond ‘lip service’: Philippines urged to act on air defence gaps

The Iran war has underscored the need for robust air systems and Manila should look to build a layered defence architecture, experts say.

US establishes new army foothold in Southeast Asia to ‘contain China’: analyst

US deploys new rotational force to Southeast Asian ally, a move experts say is aimed at deterring China and supporting Typhon missile system.

French ‘intimacy’: Philippines, France near deal for Indo-Pacific strength

The visiting forces deal comes on top of similar pacts with other nations and could help the Philippines attain a ‘muscular defence arsenal’.

Why the Philippines’ military is betting on South Korean defence systems

The US$27.7 million contract covers combat management systems for two next-generation Philippine Navy frigates.

Why the Philippine Army is turning to locally built remote weapons systems

The roll-out of the new Cobra weapon system is part of Manila’s push to build a self-reliant defence industry.

Asian Angle | Is the new Philippines-Germany defence pact built to last?

Rising anxieties over Beijing and Moscow have united Berlin and Manila in an axis that must now be institutionalised to ensure it endures.

Is the Philippines vulnerable to another military-triggered political crisis?

Analysts said an alleged plot by retired generals to oust President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr appears inspired by 2001’s EDSA Dos uprising.

Chinese involvement stalls Manila Bay bridge project due to security fears

Philippines delays US$124 million infrastructure project after a maritime group raised concerns against China Harbour Engineering Company.

Philippine military says ‘no junta’ in its ranks, warns against destabilisation

Plots to oust President Ferdinand Marcos Jnr are ‘not far-fetched’, the Philippine military’s spokeswoman says.

How a Japan-Philippines defence pact could become a ‘template’ to deter China

PLA sends bomber over South China Sea for ‘routine patrol’ after the Philippines steps up joint drills with allies in the region.

Opinion | Why China need not fear US-led ‘Squad’ evolving into Asian Nato

Uncertainty surrounds the ‘Squad’, including the US’ ability to support another grouping and Trump’s push for a grand bargain with China.

Philippines courts East Timor as new South China Sea ally in Asean

Next year’s Asean chair has shown interest in formalising defence cooperation with the latest member of the 11-nation bloc.

The Philippines wants Xi to visit. It wants a South China Sea code more

Chinese President Xi Jinping hasn’t set foot in Manila since 2018. His invitation to return comes with conditions attached.

South China Sea: does new US-Philippine task force mark turning point in ties?

The task force aims to enhance interoperability and crisis responses of American and Filipino troops, particularly in the disputed sea.

South China Sea: what does Europe see in the Philippines?

Sweden is eyeing a permanent defence attaché in the Philippines to secure trade lanes against a ‘changed China’ in the Indo-Pacific.

Canada, Philippines take ‘next step’ with joint forces pact amid China concerns

The deal is mutually beneficial to both countries, particularly as Canada moves out from under the US’ shadow in the region, analysts say.

Opinion | Philippines’ belligerence towards China out of step with Asean trend