Taguig city: The Philippines is eager to sustain the momentum in its robust partnership with the United States, Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said. Speaking at the 249th US Independence Day reception in Taguig City on Thursday night, the new Filipino top diplomat highlighted the dynamic Philippine-US engagement across all areas of cooperation from political, security, and defense to trade, investment, and development.

According to Philippines News Agency, Lazaro emphasized that for the alliance to be strong politically, it must also be strong economically, underpinned by a shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. She expressed eagerness to sustain momentum in bilateral relations, noting several high-level visits by US officials to the Philippines this year, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in March.

Lazaro also highlighted ongoing bilateral dialogues between Manila and Washington DC aimed at improving cooperation in areas such as the maritime domain, science and technology, democracy, trade and investment, energy, aviation, and outer space. Last month, the US government announced new technical assistance funding for the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas railway construction under the Luzon Economic Corridor, a trilateral initiative involving the Philippines, the US, and Japan.

Lazaro remarked that these activities demonstrate the strength and depth of the bilateral relationship. She stressed that sustaining this momentum is crucial for reinforcing the alliance, ensuring the partnership remains relevant, and addressing current and emerging challenges.

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson, present at the event, discussed the shared history and enduring ties between the two nations. She stated that the countries are partners in forging a safe, strong, and prosperous future, by defending freedom of navigation, fostering economic opportunities, promoting peace through strength, and advancing cybersecurity.

Several dignitaries joined the celebrations, including Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., presidential sister Irene Marcos-Araneta, and Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo.