ICYMI – Issa Amendment Approved by House, Strengthens Security Partnership with Philippines

Washington – Last week, Congressman Darrell Issa (CA-48) secured unanimous support for his amendment to H.R. 8036, the Indo-Pacific Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, affirming the United States’ robust backing for the Philippines as it faces increasing pressure from the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

“Amidst the PRC's aggressive actions in the South China Sea, our continued relationship with the Philippines is paramount to U.S. national security and the freedom of the South China Sea. We must not allow coercion to dictate baseless territorial claims. The unanimous bipartisan backing for my amendment underscores Congress' continued allyship with the Philippines,” said Rep. Issa.

The Philippines is the oldest treaty ally of the United States in the Indo-Pacific. 

Over the past year, the PRC has significantly escalated against the Philippines in the South China Sea, including ramming its supply ships. In response, the Philippines has taken significant steps to strengthen its partnerships with the United States and Japan as evidenced by last week’s trilateral meeting with President Biden, President Marcos, and Prime Minister Kishida.

The amendment was cosponsored by Rep. Bobby Scott (VA-03) and Del. James Moylan (GU-At Large) and passed the House by voice vote.

See Rep. Issa’s floor remarks on the amendment here.

The text of the amendment can be found here.