Manila says it is, alongside allies, ready to "counteract" any attempt by Beijing to restrict flights in airspace over the disputed South China Sea.

Ambassador Jose Romualdez, who has had meetings with Trump’s diplomatic, defense and congressional officials, said the U.S. would likely maintain its support to help modernize the Philippine military, which is at the forefront of deterring China’s growing assertiveness in the disputed waters.

The Philippine Navy on Tuesday called “baseless” and “totally absurd” claims on Chinese social media that Palawan used to belong to China.

Philippines’ Marcos has requested a meeting with U.S. leader Trump about bilateral alliance, Manila’s ambassador to Washington said.