By Prince Golez
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has committed to strengthen ties with the United States, its long-standing ally, in a historic meeting with President Joe Biden in New York City.
The Philippines has always considered the US its partner, ally and friend, Marcos Jr. told Biden in a meeting on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
He also cited the Philippines and the United States’ “very strong foundation of a very long relationship and strong relationships on various facets.”
Despite the complexities that have arisen in recent months, the Filipino leader hoped that both countries could strengthen their bid to maintain peace.
“And I hope that we will be able to discuss further the roles that our two countries will play together and individually as we continue down that road,” according to him.
Biden, for his part, sought to boost ties with the Philippines following “rocky times” in the past.
“The relationship between the United States and the Philippines, to state the obvious, has very deep roots. We’ve had some rocky times but the fact is it’s a critical, critical relationship from our perspective,” the American chief executive said.
He also mentioned that the Philippines was one of the first US allies to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“And we also thank you for your position on the war against Ukraine and — by Russia. And how it’s impacting energy prices and food prices. And we are working very hard to be able to do something about that,” said Biden.
