In a significant diplomatic engagement, Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the robust nature of the Philippines-US alliance. The conversation, which took place on Wednesday night, focused on the alliance’s critical role in ensuring prosperity and security across the Indo-Pacific region. Manalo emphasized the strong bilateral ties in political, economic, and social spheres, expressing optimism about future collaborations with Rubio’s team to tackle challenges and maintain the positive momentum in their relations.
The dialogue also touched upon the pressing issue of China’s actions in the South China Sea, which Rubio described as ‘dangerous and destabilizing.’ He highlighted that such behavior not only threatens regional peace and stability but also contravenes international law. Rubio reaffirmed the US’s unwavering commitment to the Philippines under the Mutual Defense Treaty, underscoring the importance of this alliance in the face of regional tensions.
Both leaders explored strategies to enhance security cooperation, broaden economic partnerships, and foster deeper regional collaboration. Prior to his discussion with Manalo, Rubio engaged with the foreign ministers of the QUAD—a strategic security dialogue involving the US, Japan, India, and Australia. He reiterated the US’s dedication to promoting a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’ that upholds democratic values, the rule of law, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.
Additionally, Rubio’s meeting with Japan’s Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi highlighted the importance of coordinating efforts among like-minded countries, including Japan-US-South Korea, Japan-Australia-India-US, and Japan-US-Philippines, to address regional challenges effectively.