Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. spoke by phone today.

Both officials discussed the importance of preserving the rights of all nations to fly, sail, and operate — safely and responsibly — wherever international law allows. Secretary Austin expressed ironclad U.S. support for the Philippines.

​Both officials also welcomed opportunities for frequent communication as a core part of their commitment to strengthening the U.S.-Philippines alliance in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.