125th Anniversary Celebration of Philippine Independence
Ceremonial Cutting of Cake by Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Philippine National Day Celebration, Washington DC, June 9, 2023
Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan led a ceremonial toast to celebrate 125 years of Philippine independence and more than a 100 years of friendship with the United States. In his remarks, Ambassador Romualdez stated that “since the signing of the Mutual Defense treaty 72 years ago, the alliance has remained strong with both sides working together, addressing security challenges of today.” Ambassador Romualdez further said that “the Philippines, as a responsible member of the international community, is committed to work and partner with the United States and other countries in upholding the values we hold dear and in pursuing our shared interests.”
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan who was Guest of Honor, cited US President Truman’s pledge to Philippine President Elpidio Quirino at the signing of the Mutual Defense Treaty, August 30, 1951, saying that “125 years today is an important day for the alliance and friendship between the United States and the Philippines. When President Truman stood next to President Quirino, he ended his remarks with a pledge. ‘We shall always be your friend,’ he said.”
“In the years to come, the United States will continue to make good on that pledge, President Biden said that to President Marcos when they met in the Oval Office just a few short weeks ago,” Sullivan added.
Ambassador Romualdez and National Security Advisor Sullivan reported on commitments and outcomes from intense senior level meetings including the official visit of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in Washington DC to advance economic and investment cooperation, joint efforts to address the climate crisis and provide for secure and clean energy, support the Philippine Armed Forces, strengthen disaster relief capabilities, and expand people to people exchanges. National leaders’ goal then and now are to create a better, more peaceful, more prosperous future for the people of the Philippines and the people of the United States.
Senior U.S government officials from the executive branch and Congress joined Sullivan. Other dignitaries included Philippine officials, members of the diplomatic corps, ASEAN officials, representatives from U.S. government, the business sector, Filipino-American community, and the US-Philippines Society.
Happy National Day to Filipinos around the globe. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
US-Philippines Society Executive Director Hank Hendrickson and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, 9 June 2023, Washington, DC.
NSC Advisor Jake Sullivan and USPHS Director Henry B. Howard, 9 June 2023, Washington, DC.
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