The Philippine defense chief calls for resilience and a proactive defence posture, urging stronger alliances and rapid upgrades to defence infrastructure to deter Chinese aggression.

He warns of a persistent severe threat from China despite any thaw in US-China tensions after the Trump-Xi meeting, and emphasises that security is anchored in alliances with the United States and partners like Japan, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

He stresses that U.S. commitments under the mutual defense treaty remain intact amid international strains, with security reinforced by regional partners.

There was a noted formatting issue in the original keypoints array that needs correction.

Key point repeatedly underscores the designation of the threat as severe.

Teodoro dismisses Chinese offers of fertiliser and fuel as insufficient and insincere, arguing such gestures do not reflect long-term good faith.

Further, he reiterates that Chinese aid gestures do not demonstrate lasting good faith and should not alter Manila’s assessment of Beijing’s intentions.

Addressing speculation about a 2028 presidential bid, he states he has no plans to run and will stay focused on his current duties.

There is no indication of a future presidential run; the official will continue prioritising his present responsibilities.

Media chatter about a potential 2028 candidacy is acknowledged but he reiterates his commitment to his current role.

The remarks were delivered on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, a major defense forum, during an interview with Reuters.

He says reports of China providing aid are not meaningful long-term assurance, characterising them as guileful despite media framing as relief during shortages.