Malacañang expressed confidence that the longstanding alliance between the Philippines and the United States will remain robust under Donald Trump’s new administration.
“Both the Philippines and the United States share a deep-rooted history and a mutual desire for peace in the region. I believe these commitments will be upheld,” Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin assured reporters on Wednesday.
Trump is set to return to the White House after securing more than 270 Electoral College votes, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. During his campaign, Trump underscored his intent to tighten immigration control, including plans to further secure U.S. borders.
Addressing concerns over the implications of Trump’s return on the maritime dispute in the West Philippine Sea, where the U.S. has served as an ally to the Philippines, Bersamin conveyed calm. “I don’t think we have to worry about that because there’s continuity in international relations,” he said.
When asked about the strength of future U.S.-Philippines relations, Bersamin referred to the Mutual Defense Treaty: “The description of ‘ironclad’ depends on how the U.S. interprets the Mutual Defense Treaty. If they consider it ironclad, we are more than willing to agree with that view.”
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. extended his congratulations to Trump earlier today, and according to Bersamin, a direct phone call between the two leaders could take place “tomorrow or in the coming days.”