US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to meet with his Philippine counterpart in Manila on Friday, as part of a broader Asia-Pacific tour, including stops in Tokyo and Iwo Jima. However, the trip risks being overshadowed by a growing scandal over leaked military strike details, with some lawmakers calling for Hegseth’s resignation.
The controversy stems from leaked information on US military strikes against Iran-backed Huthi rebels in Yemen, which Hegseth discussed in a Signal group chat with top officials. The leak was unintentionally exposed when journalist Jeffrey Goldberg was accidentally added to the chat. The Atlantic later published screenshots, revealing that Hegseth shared details on the timing, aircraft, missiles, and drones used in the operation.
Despite mounting pressure, President Donald Trump has defended Hegseth, calling the scandal a “witch hunt” and insisting that no classified information was shared. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz admitted to adding Goldberg to the group, which also included Vice President JD Vance, National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard, and other top officials.
Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth has demanded that Trump fire everyone involved, calling Hegseth a “liar” whose recklessness “could’ve gotten our pilots killed”. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has admitted there was a “big mistake”, but most of the administration has stood by Hegseth, focusing instead on the success of the Yemen strikes.
Hegseth’s visit underscores deepening US-Philippines defense ties amid rising tensions with China in the South China Sea. The US has warned that an “armed attack” on the Philippines in the disputed waters would trigger the Mutual Defense Treaty between the two nations.
Under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Manila has taken a stronger stance against Beijing’s expansive territorial claims, aligning more closely with Washington. Recent agreements have expanded intelligence-sharing and increased the number of US-accessible military bases in the Philippines to nine.
Hegseth’s visit coincides with ongoing joint military exercises, which will expand next month to include naval and air force drills. With the Philippines’ proximity to Taiwan, US-Philippines cooperation would be crucial in any potential conflict with China.
Despite the Signal leak scandal, the Biden administration remains committed to strengthening alliances in the Asia-Pacific region, countering China’s growing military presence while downplaying the political firestorm surrounding Hegseth.