Philippines defence minister says US treaty needs comprehensive review

Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said there was a need to upgrade and update the alliance and to make clear the US' commitments. - AFP

WASHINGTON (Reuters): Philippine Defence Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said on Wednesday (Sept 8) there was a need for a comprehensive review of his country's alliance with the United States, complaining Manila got less from its relationship with Washington than non-treaty allies despite growing pressure from China.

At an online event to mark the 70th anniversary of the countries' mutual defence treaty (MDT), Lorenzana said there was a need to "upgrade" and "update" the alliance and to make clear the "extent of American commitments."