, Mamochka Ivan

Transformation of Philippines’ Defense Policy in the 21st Century: Modernization of the Armed Forces and Diversification of International Cooperation

ЮГО-ВОСТОЧНАЯ АЗИЯ: АКТУАЛЬНЫЕ ПРОБЛЕМЫ РАЗВИТИЯ, 2025, №2(67), 187-202

 
Annotation: The article analyzes the dynamics of Philippines’ defense policy over the past three decades. The authors examine Philippines’ experience in implementing its armed forces modernization program and analyze the directions and prospects for defense cooperation with key partners — the United States, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and South Korea. Special attention is paid to the Philippines’ search for new partners, which include the United Kingdom and India. The authors conclude that the Philippines’ recent efforts to diversify its international defense and political ties have contributed to enhancing the country's military capabilities and acquiring new weapons systems. Moreover, increased cooperation with new partners enables the Philippines to move away from an exclusive reliance on the United States and to establish a more balanced and equitable bilateral alliance.

Keywords: Philippines, cooperation, alliance, defense policy, armed forces, modernization, USA