Research Article Purpose—To examine how the Philippines leverages relationships with the United States, China, and India, while engaging middle powers like Japan and South Korea, to ensure maritime security and promote national interests in the Indo-Pacific.

Methodology—This study employs discourse analysis of joint statements, defense agreements, and maritime dialogues, combined with thematic analysis of elite narratives, to situate Manila’s decisions within the evolving security landscape of the Indo-Pacific.

Findings—The Philippines employs a layered approach—strengthening defense ties with the United States as its primary security partner, maintaining pragmatic economic relations with China despite maritime disputes, and cooperating with India to boost naval capacity and technological resilience. Engagements with Japan and South Korea diversify security and financial options, forming a broad support network.

Practical Implications—The study demonstrates how smaller states can mitigate vulnerability and maintain strategic autonomy by diversifying their alliances and institutionalizing multipolar engagements. These insights are valuable for policymakers exploring middle-power strategies amid great-power rivalry.

Originality/Value—This article adds to the Indo-Pacific security diplomacy literature by highlighting the Philippines’ active role in balancing major and middle powers, offering insights into maritime security practices among smaller states.