Manalo meets Rubio to boost US-Philippines ties on security and economy

Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington D.C. to discuss enhancing bilateral ties amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.

Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation on security issues and increasing economic collaboration, emphasizing the importance of the US-Philippines alliance for a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

The meeting underscored growing defense collaboration, including recent joint military exercises and support for the Philippines' defense modernization efforts.

High-level talks between Philippine and U.S. economic managers aim to address reciprocal tariffs and explore new opportunities for trilateral cooperation with Japan through the Luzon Economic Corridor, initiated in April 2024.

Manalo's diplomatic mission includes meetings at the United Nations and participation in Philippine Independence Day celebrations, reaffirming the Philippines' commitment to global challenges and UN Charter enforcement.