Philippine Foreign Affairs to Keep Dialogue Open with U.S. Amid Aid Suspension

The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has announced its intention to maintain ongoing discussions with the United States government following President Donald Trump’s directive to temporarily halt foreign aid. DFA spokesperson Ma. Teresita Daza emphasized that the U.S. Department of State and other relevant agencies are currently analyzing the executive order to understand its effects on U.S. international partnerships. Trump’s decision imposes a 90-day moratorium on foreign development assistance, aiming to evaluate the efficiency and alignment of these programs with his foreign policy objectives. In response, the U.S. State Department has issued a directive to halt all ongoing foreign aid and new assistance initiatives. Daza affirmed that the DFA will persist in its engagement with the U.S. on this issue. Recent communications between Philippine Foreign Secretary Manalo and U.S. Secretary Rubio highlighted the significance of the Philippines-U.S. alliance, with both parties pledging to enhance security, economic, and regional cooperation. The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary Rubio, is conducting a comprehensive review of foreign assistance programs to ensure they align with the America First policy and deliver tangible benefits to American taxpayers. The department stressed that reassessing and realigning foreign aid is not only necessary but a moral obligation to the American public.