Amb John Negroponte: Remarks at the Logo Launch of the 80th Anniversary of PH-U.S Diplomatic Relations
February 9, 2026
Malacañang Palace, Manila
Remarks of Ambassador John D. Negroponte
former Ambassador to the Philippines (1993-1996)
This recognition of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations is a timely occasion to reflect on events before 1946, in the decades that followed, and into the 21st century. The commitment to Philippine independence in the period prior to World War Two and consummated by the shared sacrifice of the war years forged ties between two sovereign states on July 4th 1946, a pivotal date that we celebrate today.
A Mutual Defense Treaty five years later brought our countries into a formal alliance partnership. The end of the Cold War 45 years later and the closure of our military bases was accompanied by the rise of new challenges that demanded attention and called for new forms of cooperation between the Philippines and the United States.
Reflecting on the period when I served as ambassador to the Philippines in the mid-1990’s, we recall the expansion of claims to maritime features in the South China Sea, including Mischief Reef, well within the Philippines Exclusive Economic Zone. At the same time global Jihadists cultivated assets in the Philippines to plot terrorist attacks on international airline operations, plots that led to the “9-11” attacks on the U.S. in 2001.
These events drew renewed bilateral cooperation in preserving stability and military readiness in the West Philippine Sea and ultimate success in the Global War on Terror. At the same time, commercial investments, trade, and educational exchanges expanded linkages between our two peoples in a generation removed from the visionary founders of 1946.
To support a new, growing, and balanced official relationship, thought leaders both here and in the United States conceived the idea of a US-Philippines Society, which was launched in 2012.
I have been honored to serve as the Society’s co-chair since then and am delighted to be here this evening with co-chair Jaime Augusto Zobel and others, especially Babe Romualdez, who play such vital roles in carrying forward the Society’s mission.
Mr. President, you reminded President Trump in Washington that America is the Philippines strongest partner, guided by shared values and a commitment to international law. We also recall that at an event hosted by the Society for you in New York before your initial address to the UN General Assembly in 2022 and just months after your inauguration, you stated flatly that you could not imagine a future for the Philippines without a close relationship with the United States.
We at the US-Philippines Society share that vision. From the outset, we have worked to strengthen ties between our two countries and peoples, and to provide continuity in this vital relationship. This year we have expanded that vision to include support for a stronger trilateral relationship among the U.S., the Philippines, and Japan, reflecting regional realities. Co-chair Jaime and I will lead a delegation for three-way talks in Tokyo later this week.
While independent, the US-Philippines Society works closely with both governments and is pleased to participate in the joint celebration of the 80th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.
Working with your embassy in Washington, we look forward to collaborating on events in the months ahead marking this historical occasion, capped by a truly special musical tribute on July 1st at Washington’s venerable DAR Constitution Hall.
The concert aims to raise awareness of the enduring Philippines-U.S. relationship spanning 80years and more, and to showcase before an American audience the musical and artistic talent that Filipinos bring to the international stage.
Thank you for the opportunity to work together once again, and please “Save the Date,” so we can see you all in Washington.
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