President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday expressed confidence that the Philippines–United States alliance will continue to advance with renewed conviction and commitment as both countries commemorate the 80th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations.
Speaking at a ceremony in Malacañan Palace attended by high-level Philippine and U.S. officials, President Marcos led the unveiling of the official anniversary logo that will be used in commemorative activities throughout the year. The logo symbolizes eight decades of enduring friendship between the two nations, which formally established diplomatic ties on July 4, 1946.
“The anniversary logo captures and reflects 80 years of a relationship that has endured the test of time,” President Marcos said. “From opposite sides of the Pacific, our two countries have bridged distance and differences, guided by our shared history and our common advocacies.”
The President underscored his optimism for the future of the alliance, noting its vital role in promoting regional stability and shared prosperity.
“I am confident that this alliance will move forward with even greater conviction and commitment to the security, prosperity, and resilience of our peoples and of our region,” he said.
The milestone also coincides with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. President Marcos highlighted the Philippines’ longstanding partnership with the U.S., emphasizing its significance over the decades.
“For 80 of those 250 years, the Philippines has been proud to call the United States a trusted friend, a steadfast partner, and an unwavering ally,” he said.
This year likewise marks the 75th anniversary of the Philippine–U.S. Mutual Defense Treaty, which remains the cornerstone of bilateral defense and security cooperation. President Marcos noted that the strength of the alliance rests on sustained effort and a broad scope of collaboration.
“Any enduring relationship requires commitment and sustained effort, and we have certainly done the needed work,” the President said, citing cooperation across domestic, regional, and international concerns.
He added that both countries continue to seize opportunities through bilateral, unilateral, and multilateral engagements, while expanding cooperation into emerging areas such as cybersecurity and outer space.
President Marcos also recalled his official visit to the United States last year, noting that he was the first and only leader from an Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member-state to be invited to the White House by U.S. President Donald Trump during his second term.
“Our positive initial engagement provided renewed momentum for sustained high-level exchanges, and more importantly, it reaffirmed the foundational groundwork that continues to strengthen our alliance,” the President said.
