MANILA, Philippines -- The United States is a committed ally of the Philippines, despite President Rodrigo Duterte's announced 'separation', US State Department spokesperson John Kirby said.
"Aside from the tensions in the South China Sea, there are and have been already good solid reasons why we would want to continue a strong defense relationship with the Philippines, Kirby said in a televised briefing.
During President Duterte's trip to China, he announced that the Philippines will be separating from the United States both in military and economics.
"We have heard from many of our friends and partners in the region who are likewise confused about where this is going," Kirby said in response to Duterte's announcement.
He added that the US is baffled by the statement.
However, Kirby said that the ties that binds the US and the Philippines are strong, and that the US has provided aid and assistance to the Philippines in the past.
"We very much want to see those ties... we want to see those continue, and we want to see them deepen and strengthen," Kirby said.