IRONCLAD PHILIPPINES-U.S. TIES LAUDED AT 127TH PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY DIPLOMATIC RECEPTION

PRESS RELEASE

WDC-44-2025

13 June 2025

Embassy Press and Information Section

info@phembassy-us.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippines and United States remain as committed as ever to their security alliance and invested in growing their economic partnership.

This was the message conveyed by Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez to an audience of U.S. officials, the diplomatic corps, and friends of the Philippines during a reception to celebrate the 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence.

“I am pleased to say that today, our alliance continues to remain strong and ironclad, with both nations firmly and fully committed to our 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty. The friendship between our two countries is closer than ever,” the Ambassador said.

With several high-level engagements already concluded between the Philippines and the new U.S. administration, Ambassador Romualdez expressed confidence that Philippines-U.S. relations will continue to expand and deepen. This is especially true as both countries approach two milestones in 2026: the 80th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations, and Philippines’ chairship of ASEAN.

As the Philippines supports the pursuit of peace through strength, “We are confident that with the leadership of President Trump and the cooperation of like-minded nations along with our friends, partners and allies, we will be able to maintain a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region,” added the Ambassador.

Delivering remarks on behalf of Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson declared that Philippines-U.S. ties are stronger than ever: “We stand shoulder to shoulder as steadfast friends, partners in prosperity, and ironclad allies, working together to enhance the oldest treaty alliance in the Indo-Pacific.” 

Ambassador Carlson added, “Everything Filipinos and Americans do together – whether in trade, investment, defense, diplomacy – is predicated on our greatest strength: the rock-solid people-to-people ties.” She invited both countries to celebrate their enduring friendship, honor their common goals and values, and affirm their commitment to their mutually beneficial partnership.

The reception featured a rendition of the Philippine and U.S. national anthems by acclaimed Filipino-American concert pianist Carlos Ibay, as well as a sampling of Filipino cuisine prepared by Filipino chef Dominic Valderon.
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