U.S. boosts alliance with the Philippines with $500 million funding and pact amid concern over China
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., centre, greets U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, left, and U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin after their meeting at the Malacanang presidential palace in Manila, Philippines on July 30, 2024. | Photo Credit: Reuters Washington’s top diplomat and defence chief announced $500 million in new military funding on July…