US President Joe Biden hosted Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the White House and reaffirmed US support for the security of the Philippines while stressing the "deep friendship" the two countries share, as worries about Chinese Navy harassment of Philippine vessels mount.

Promise of ‘deep friendship’: US, Philippines recommit to boost military ties amid China’s aggression

Amid rising tensions between China and Philippines, the United States and Philippines will conduct a two-week joint military exercise from today. The announcement came after the two countries' defence secretaries held a phone call to discuss the drills, the situation in the South China Sea, and recent regional security developments.

Philippines, US to begin two-week joint military drill from Monday

"The United States stands with our ally, the Philippines, in the face of the PRC's maritime militia amassing at WhitsunReef. We will always stand by our allies and stand up for the rules-based international order," Blinken tweeted.

Blinken backs Philippines as hundreds of China vessels crowd disputed reef