US, Philippines form military task force for areas including South China Sea, Pentagon says

**Summary:**The U.S. and the Philippines have established a new joint task force, Task Force-Philippines, to strengthen their military partnership. This move comes after Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth met with Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro and discussed maritime tensions in the South China Sea. The task force aims to increase cooperation, improve readiness, and address concerns about China's activities in the region. The U.S. and the Philippines have held four major defense meetings this year, emphasizing their commitment to regional stability and deterrence. The Daily News Now! — Every city. Every story. AI-powered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.