The Philippines is strategically located in the Indo-Pacific and critical to U.S. national interests in the region. For one, the Philippines, the oldest ally in Southeast Asia, shares important security ties with the U.S. as a major non-NATO strategic partner.

Where is the Philippines specifically located?

The Philippines is located in Southeast Asia, on the eastern rim of the Asiatic Mediterranean. It is bounded in the west by the South China Sea; in the east by the Pacific Ocean; in the south by the Sulu and Celebes Seas; and in the north by the Bashi Channel. Its capital and main port of entry is Manila.

What is the importance Philippines location?

The nation's strategic positioning as a gateway between the Pacific and the rest of Asia, in particular its proximity to the region's two largest economies, China and Japan, provides it with several vital sea routes for trade and commerce.