National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke today with Philippine National Security Advisor Eduardo M. Año.  Mr. Sullivan and Mr. Ano discussed preparations for the visit of Philippine President Marcos to the White House and the historic Japan-Philippines-U.S. trilateral leaders’ summit.  Mr. Sullivan also emphasized U.S. support for the Philippines following the PRC Coast Guard and maritime militia’s dangerous actions on March 23 obstructing a lawful Philippine resupply mission to Second Thomas Shoal.  Mr. Sullivan underscored the ironclad U.S. alliance commitments to the Philippines under the U.S.-Philippines Mutual Defense Treaty, which extends to armed attacks on Philippine armed forces, public vessels, or aircraft—to include those of its Coast Guard—anywhere in the South China Sea.

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