US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin (2nd R) meets with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos during a courtesy call at the Malacanang Palace in Manila on November 18, 2024. US and Philippine defence chiefs signed an agreement November 18 on sharing classified military information and technology, as the long-time treaty allies deepen cooperation in a bid to counter Chinese influence in the region. (Photo by Gerard CARREON / POOL / AFP) (Photo by GERARD CARREON/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)