U.S. establishes task force to support Philippine operations in South China Sea

The U.S. military has established a special task force, named Task Force-Ayungin, to support Philippine operations in the South China Sea. This initiative focuses on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, enhancing coordination between U.S. and Philippine forces. The task force was announced by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin during his recent visit to the Philippines. Philippine officials clarified that while the U.S. provides support, the operations remain under Philippine control. Tensions between China and the Philippines have increased due to resupply missions to the contested Second Thomas Shoal. A provisional arrangement has been reached, with no recent altercations reported.