The efforts reflect the strength of the US-Philippines’ “ironclad alliance, particularly in the face of Communist China’s aggression in the region,” Hegseth said during a joint press conference with his counterpart Gilbert Teodoro as quoted by CNN.

The US will deploy additional advanced military capabilities for joint training, enhance interoperability for “high end operations” and prioritize defense industrial cooperation, he said.

He said: "Our staff and both of us are going to remain actively engaged. It reflects the strength, as I said, of our ironclad alliance, particularly in the face of communist China's aggression in the region. And our partnership demonstrates our commitment to peace and security in the Indo Pacific."

He made the remark during his first visit to Asia as defence chief.

According to reports, the Philippines has been has been facing aggression from China in the region.

Beijing seeks to assert its claim over the bulk of the South China Sea, despite an international ruling denying its sovereignty over the waterway, reported CNN.

Hegseth pledged that US President Donald Trump-led administration would “truly prioritize a shift” to the Indo-Pacific with the “recognition that for the 21st century to be a free century, America needs to stand alongside our allies and partners shoulder to shoulder.”

“Together, we’ll encourage our other partners and allies in the region to step up their efforts and their cooperation to increase defense capabilities and strengthen deterrence,” Hegseth said.

Pete Hegseth is also visited Japan as part of the tour.

After concluding his visit, he posted on X: "Wrapping up my first trip to the @INDOPACOM region meeting with our @USForcesJapan troops. These warriors are the backbone of our presence in the Indo-Pacific—ready, resilient, and always standing guard. Keep up the great work."