Marcos, Trump talks reinforce PH-US strategic alliance

**media[28935]**The talks between President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. and US President Donald Trump have advanced the frontiers of the two countries’ strategic alliance.Evidently, there was good chemistry between the two leaders. Facing White House media, they shared highlights of their conversation and contextualized these in light of the evolving geo-political dynamics.President Trump affirmed that both countries were “very close to finishing a trade deal — big trade deal, actually,” adding that this bodes well in terms of “a lot of income coming in for both (countries).” It was ascertained later that he agreed to a reduction in the US’ tariff on Philippine exports from 20 percent to 19 percent — a disappointment for those who are advocating for long-term market access beyond the traditional product lines.President Marcos observed that “the United States is our only treaty partner in the Philippines and that has stood us in good stead over the years. He also emphasized: “The cultural memory of all Filipinos is that our strongest, closest, most reliable ally has always been the United States.”Significantly, President Trump observed that the relationship between the Philippines and the US had been restored, emphasizing that if such had not been as auspicious prior to his second term, this may be attributed to the fact that “they didn't get along with anybody” in apparent reference to Marcos’ predecessor.Trump also noted the previous Philippine administration’s “tilting toward China for a period of time, and I just don't think that would have been good for you.” Despite this, he said he respects President Marcos’ stance toward China, as “he has to do what's right for his country.”President Marcos said there was no inherent need to “balance” Manila’s relationships with Washington and Beijing emphasizing that the Philippines' primary concern remains the defense of its territory and the exercise of its sovereign rights. Moreover, he explained the importance of coalitions and multilateral relations.He beamed the spotlight on the planned United States-backed ammunition hub in Subic, saying its development is a critical component of the Philippines’ self-reliance defense program in response to the evolving situation around the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific region.While not discussed in the Marcos-Trump talks, the US’ support for the Luzon Economic Corridor remains robust, according to Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Manuel Romualdez, who pointed out US State Secretary Marco Rubio’s support for its inclusion in the US’ economic assistance program.A recalibrated Philippine-US alliance has been forged by the Marcos visit to the White House. With President Trump’s return, the geopolitical landscape has shifted — and President Marcos has positioned the Philippines as a valued partner in America’s Indo-Pacific strategy. Their talks affirmed mutual defense commitments, expanded economic cooperation, and addressed regional flashpoints, especially the West Philippine Sea.The renewed Trump presidency may bring unpredictability, but Marcos’ engagement reflects steady diplomacy: Balancing assertiveness on sovereignty with pragmatism in alliance-building. In an era of realigned global power the Philippines must navigate its course with clarity and resolve.By affirming ties at the highest level, Marcos has endeavored to ensure that the country’s interests — security, economic resilience, and regional peace — are not only protected but advanced.