Marcos Jr., Trump reaffirm defense ties, discuss economic cooperation

During a three-day official visit to Washington, D.C., President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed their mutual commitment to the 1951 Mutual Defense Treaty and discussed strengthening economic and defense ties.

Marcos Jr. emphasized reinforcing supply chains through the Luzon Economic Corridor, addressing tariffs, and enhancing cybersecurity and energy resilience in bilateral discussions.

The Philippine leader welcomed an additional $15 million from the U.S. government for private sector development under the Luzon Economic Corridor Initiative and pledged over $21 billion in investment pledges that could create thousands of direct and indirect jobs for Filipinos.

Both leaders exchanged views on security issues, focusing on cooperation to address challenges in the Indo-Pacific region and promoting peace and stability in the South China Sea.

Marcos Jr. thanked the U.S. government for its support in regional security and economic development, including assistance during recent flooding caused by the Southwest Monsoon.