The United States, under the new Trump administration, is working to strengthen its relationship with the Philippines in areas beyond security, focusing on economic development.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo at the Munich Security Conference, where they discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Rubio reaffirmed the US commitment to its alliance with the Philippines and emphasized the importance of building a more enduring relationship.
Talks also covered joint efforts to address China’s destabilizing actions in the South China Sea and expanding cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, energy, and technology.
Additionally, the Philippines and the US are prioritizing defense cooperation to strengthen deterrence in the West Philippine Sea.
Source: PhilNews24 | February 16, 2025
