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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.

Members of the US Army Rotational Force-Philippines and the Marine Rotational Force-Southeast Asia hold a meeting at Camp Aguinaldo in the Philippines on January 12. Photo: Handout

US-China relations

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.

12 Feb 2026 - 6:51PM

Gilberto Teodoro Jnr

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

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

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.

.css-1m2rp1p{color:#34b8b5;}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.

Philippines hits hard against campaign to recruit military and destabilise state

A congressman was targeted after he posted a photo of himself in military uniform while alluding to a ‘Republic of Mindanao’.

Philippines 3D-prints drones for future warfare, boosts security alliances

Among the scenarios tested in war games is the possibility of a Taiwan conflict, which could be dominated by drone warfare, military chief says.

Japan’s new military pact with Philippines set to deter China

The Reciprocal Access Agreement that took effect on September 11 will see Japanese troops on Philippine soil for the first time since WWII.

‘Red alert’: Philippines gripped by coup rumours before anti-corruption protests

The defence department and the military have warned against ‘futile’ attempts suggesting ‘unconstitutional’ interventions.

Philippine defence, military chiefs slam call to dump Marcos as scandal flares

Teodoro and Brawner urged ‘every Filipino to place their trust in our democratic institutions’ amid the anti-corruption protests.

Beijing accuses Philippines of ‘causing trouble’ in South China Sea

Defence ministry’s attack on Manila – which also hinted US was fuelling tensions – comes amid major joint exercise with Australia.

To counter Beijing in South China Sea, Manila and Canberra forge defence pact

Australia’s defence chief says the new deal will ‘regularise’ military operations and exercises between both countries.

Philippines slams ‘reckless’ Chinese ships over collision at Scarborough Shoal

China criticised the Philippines for its ‘malign’ moves in Monday’s incident, saying it had ‘seriously harmed peace and stability at sea’.

‘We’ll have everything’: US, Philippines confirm munitions hub for Subic Bay

Philippine Vice-President Sara Duterte has vehemently opposed the move as not being in Manila’s national interest.

Philippines eyes multirole fighter jets for ‘credible deterrence’ against China

Air force chief says more advanced platforms needed to meet defence goals, as country weighs choice between F-16s and Gripen.

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