President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed confidence in the continued strengthening of economic, diplomatic, and defense ties between the Philippines and the United States during a recent phone conversation with outgoing Vice President Kamala Harris. Marcos highlighted the significant advancements made in the bilateral relationship under the current U.S. administration and expressed hope for further progress under President-elect Donald Trump’s leadership.
During the call, Marcos emphasized the multifaceted nature of the Philippines-U.S. relationship, which spans economic, diplomatic, and defense sectors. He noted the encouraging progress and the shared commitment to international law and values. Harris, in response, assured Marcos of the bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for enhancing ties with the Philippines, particularly in security, economic growth, and cultural exchanges.
The discussion also touched on the ongoing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, with Harris reaffirming the U.S.’s commitment to defending the Philippines, including in the South China Sea. Marcos acknowledged the productive partnership fostered under President Joe Biden’s administration and expressed gratitude for Harris’s support.
The leaders also discussed the trilateral cooperation between the Philippines, the U.S., and Japan, which has been recognized by ASEAN and is seen as crucial for regional security and economic resilience. In a recent virtual meeting, Marcos, Biden, and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru committed to further enhancing this cooperation, focusing on maritime security, economic resilience, and technology.
Marcos and Harris have met multiple times, including during Harris’s visit to Manila in November 2022 and before the APEC conference in San Francisco in November 2023. Marcos praised Harris for her contributions to the Philippines-U.S. relationship and invited her to visit the Philippines again. The two nations have maintained formal diplomatic relations since July 4, 1946, with the U.S. being the Philippines’ oldest treaty ally. Bilateral defense and security engagements remain a cornerstone of their relationship, supported by various agreements. In 2023, the U.S. was the third top trading partner of the Philippines, with trade valued at USD19.96 billion.