MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the relationship between the Philippines and the United States remains “robust” as the two countries work together to resolve “common challenges.”
According to the Chief Executive, Philippines is “deeply familiar with the atrocities brought about by war between and among nations” after the country was the “most devastated city in the Pacific” during World War II.”
“The Philippines… has always chosen the path of peace, and I can assure all of you that we will continue to do so,” Marcos said in a speech during the 80th anniversary of Philippines’ liberation from Japanese invasion.
“We have and will continue to work with partners and the international community in building bridges, forging solutions, preserving our global commons,” he added. “The Philippines will always make a stand and will always stand for what is right.”
President Marcos also pointed out that relations between Manila and Washington “are firmly anchored on the values and principles” such as “peace, democracy, fairness, social progress, and justice.”
“Our two nations are committed to the preservation and enhancement of national security, the attainment of economic prosperity, and the promotion of the rights and wellbeing of our peoples,” he said.
“Bound by our shared history and our common commitment to a region governed by rules not by might, where the rights of countries, large or small, are respected, the Philippines recognizes challenges that lie ahead and is assured that we can continue to count on the help of friends, as we have done so over the last eighty years,” he added.
US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, for her part, said Manila and Washington’s “shared experience fighting side by side 80 years ago continues to provide meaning and focus for the modern U.S.-Philippine Alliance.”
“Our bilateral ties are stronger than ever as we work together today to address shared challenges ranging from maritime security and disaster response to complex 21st century concerns such as those we encounter in the space and cyber domains,” the American envoy said.
“We are encouraged by the growing number of likeminded partners who are playing key roles in our concerted effort to achieve our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific and a world where democratic freedoms can flourish,” she added.
Carlson ended her statement by noting that Japan is now seen as a partner of both the US and the Philippines and not as a foe.
“The United States, the Philippines, and Japan now stand as partners — demonstrating that yesterday’s barriers can be overcome in the spirit of friendship and cooperation,” she said.
“Together, let us strive to preserve the legacy of those who fought and suffered here by working toward a future defined by peace and the shared values of democracy and freedom,” she added./PN
