PRESIDENT FERDINAND R. MARCOS, JR.’S FIRST YEAR: A REVIEW OF THE NEW ADMINISTRATION’S POLICY DIRECTIONS, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PHILIPPINES-U.S. RELATIONS

Since the inauguration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on June 30, 2022, the ties between the United States and the Philippines have been revitalized, highlighted by increased bilateral engagement at various levels, including Presidential, Vice Presidential, cabinet and sub-cabinet, Congressional, and private sector and across a wide range of issues, such as food and energy security, resilience in the face of climate change-induced natural disasters, and more.

The Marcos administration’s efforts to enhance Philippine security amidst regional challenges and rebuild the nation’s economy after the pandemic are key elements of the new administration’s foreign policy priorities. Ambassador Romualdez, who has been actively engaged with policymakers in both Manila and Washington, will provide a review of the Marcos Administration’s first year, and share his perspective on the outcomes of the accelerated pace of engagement between the two allies, discuss strategies for sustaining it, and highlight its implications for the future of the relationship.