The Philippine government has vowed to strengthen the country’s relations with the United States but called for mutual respect and non-interference in domestic affairs.
A few days before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump, Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella acknowledged the country still considers the United States as a “longstanding ally.”
“The Philippines and the United States are longstanding allies and we intend to further strengthen the bilateral ties anchored on mutual respect, mutual benefit, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs and a shared commitment to world peace as the Trump administration assumes office,” he said.
The President has been invited to attend the Trump inauguration this weekend but sent instead two Cabinet members to the ceremony. Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. have flown to the US on Tuesday upon the orders of the President.
Philippine Chargé d’Affairés to Washington DC Patrick Chuasoto is expected to officially represent the President to the Trump inaugural.
Last Sunday, the President met with US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim in Davao City and tackled the relations between the two country.
The US ambassador assured that Washington is committed to the “solid” bilateral relations with the Philippines and will continue to provide support in maritime security, law enforcement, aid in Mindanao, among others.
(GENALYN KABILING)