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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider Trade & Industry devider America's defense industry eyes Philippines modernization drive

America's defense industry eyes Philippines modernization drive

Published Jun 24, 2025 02:16 pm
(Unsplash)
(Unsplash)
Amid escalating geopolitical tensions, a business mission from the United States (US) will visit the Philippines in August with the hope of attracting the government’s interest in modern defense and security equipment.
In a notice seen by Manila Bulletin, the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) announced that it is organizing an aerospace, defense, and security (ADS) mission in Manila on Aug. 14 to 15.
The mission, undertaken in collaboration with the US Embassy in the Philippines and the US International Trade Administration’s (ITA) Aerospace and Defense Team, will bring together US industry leaders and key government officials from the Philippines.
USABC, the lead advocacy group for American corporations operating within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), stated that this mission will focus on strategic collaborations in defense modernization, aerospace development, and security advancements.
Such a mission, according to the group, is increasingly vital as the Philippines is currently undergoing military modernization and strengthening of defense ties amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
In particular, the Philippines has been ramping up its defense and industrial cooperation with the US, arguably its closest ally, to bolster its security network.
USABC noted that the country is currently pursuing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term, signaling its intention to uphold peace and security on a global level.
“Together, these milestones highlight the Philippines’ broader diplomatic ambitions for global and multilateral leadership, offering a timely opportunity for deeper international engagement,” it said.
Recognized as the global leader in ADS, USABC is keen on bringing America’s leading companies that are “well-positioned” to support the Philippines’ defense needs.
According to the notice, American firms will have the opportunity to engage with top-ranking officials of the country’s security and defense agencies during the two-day mission.
Among those that will participate are the top honchos of the Department of National Defense (DND), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), among others.
The engagements will also include members of the legislative branch, particularly the chairpersons of the Senate and House committees on defense, given their important role in shaping the annual budget for defense.
“This mission offers a timely platform for US companies to engage with new officials and key stakeholders shaping defense policy, budgets, and procurement-laying the groundwork for long-term collaboration,” said USABC.
Through this mission, the group stated that American companies will be able to showcase their cutting-edge technologies, positioning themselves as trusted allies in the country’s defense and security sectors.
By helping the Philippines counter regional threats, these companies likewise strengthen the US’ leadership in defense.
“Beyond commercial opportunities, this engagement supports Philippine security goals, drives innovation, and fosters enduring relationships that strengthen regional stability and shared growth,” USABC said.
The ADS mission in Manila will take place after the annual USABC Philippine business mission, which strives to deepen both the US and the Philippines’ relation in growth-driving sectors.

Related Tags

US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) aerospace defense and security (ADS)
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