Philippines, U.S. top security officials discuss China’s ‘coercive, aggressive’ actions, Manila says

MANILA (Reuters) – The Philippines on Tuesday said its national security adviser and his U.S. counterpart have discussed China’s “coercive, aggressive, and deceptive actions” in the South China Sea.

Philippine National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano “expressed his appreciation for the United States’ continued assurances and reaffirmation of its ironclad commitment” to their alliance, the Philippines said in a statement.

(Reporting by Mikhail Flores; Editing by Martin Petty)