Biden says US commitment to Philippines 'ironclad' amid China tensions

The US's commitment to the Philippines' security is "ironclad" amid mounting tensions with China, President Joe Biden said Monday as he hosted his Philippine counterpart.

"We are facing new challenges, and I can't think of a better partner to have than you," Biden said alongside President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during brief remarks in the Oval Office before the leaders went into closed-door meetings.

"The United States also remains ironclad in our commitment to the defense of the Philippines, including in the South China Sea, and we are going to continue to support the Philippines' military modernization goals," he added.