House Speaker Martin Romualdez (left), La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V (PPAB)

Ranking members of the House of Representatives welcomed on Friday, March 28 United States (US) Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on his first visit to the Philippines.

No less than Speaker Martin Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong legislative chamber, gave glowing remarks as to the importance of Hegseth’s visit.

“His presence reaffirms the deep, historic, and forward-looking alliance that has long bound our two nations in friendship and shared purpose," he said.

Romualdez said Hegseth’s visit “comes at a critical time for the region and underscores our common commitment to upholding peace, stability, and the rule of law - especially amid complex challenges in the South China Sea".

“The high-level discussions between Secretary Hegseth and Philippine officials reflect a unified vision: to fortify our defense cooperation and preserve the principles of freedom of navigation and respect for international norms,” said the Speaker.

Romualdez, President Marcos' top lieutenant, pointed out that the Philippines-US alliance must go beyond shared security.

“As Speaker of the House of Representatives, I believe this partnership should also serve as a platform for greater economic engagement - expanding trade, generating jobs, and creating opportunities that uplift the lives of ordinary Filipinos and Americans alike,” stressed the Leyte 1st district representative.

He urged the two nations to “move forward together, not only as allies in defense, but as partners in development - united by democratic values, inspired by common aspirations, and bound by a future we endeavor to shape together".

“May Secretary Hegseth’s visit be a catalyst for renewed collaboration, as we work hand in hand toward a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific - one where all our peoples may thrive in peace and dignity,” he further said.

For his part, Deputy Majority Leader La Union 1st district Rep. Paolo Ortega V--whose province faces the West Philippine Sea (WPS)--underscored the importance of Hegseth’s visit, especially at a time of heightened tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, including the South China Sea. 

Ortega described the American official's presence "as a strong affirmation of the enduring partnership between the two nations amid regional security challenges".

He noted that the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty (MDT) remains a critical foundation for Philippine-US relations and a cornerstone of national defense amid shifting geopolitical realities.

The solon has been consistent in addressing recent security concerns, particularly the increased incursions of Chinese vessels into the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

He mentioned ongoing incidents involving Chinese maritime militia vessels, which have prompted urgent measures to enhance maritime security and defense capabilities.

“Habang pinoprotektahan natin ang ating mga karapatan sa [WPS], mananatili tayong bukas sa mapayapa at diplomatikong paraan ng pagresolba ng anumang gusot sa rehiyon (While we protect our rights in the WPS, we remain open to peaceful and diplomatic ways to resolve any problem in the region),” Ortega said.