Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. takes a stroll with US President Joe Biden at the White House. (Photo from the President Communications Office)
WASHINGTON, DC, United States — US President Joe Biden said on Monday (early morning Tuesday Philippine time) he would send a “first of its kind” presidential trade and investment mission to the Philippines.
He made the remark following his bilateral meeting with President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. at the White House, where he underscored the “strong partnership” and “deep friendship” between the Philippines and the US.
Biden also committed to stepping up America’s support in a wide range of issues, including climate change mitigation and the economy.
“We’re tackling climate change. We’re accelerating our countries’ chances… and we’re standing up for our shared democratic values and workers’ rights… and together we’re deepening our economic cooperation,” Biden told Marcos.
Marcos then thanked Biden for America’s assistance and sought to strengthen “alliances and partnership in the face of the new economy that we are facing post-pandemic.”
Monday’s Oval Office meeting also included discussions on security, education, and other initiatives as part of Marcos’ five-day official visit to Washington.
Philippine Cabinet officials with their US counterparts also held a meeting with Marcos and Biden in an expanded bilateral meeting in the White House.
This was the second time that Marcos and Biden met since September last year on the sidelines of the 77th United Nations General Assembly.
In their first meeting, they renewed their commitment to the alliance and partnership and agreed to firm up cooperation in priority sectors, as well as their respective visits to the Philippines and the US.
During his visit to Washington, Marcos is also set to go to the Pentagon and meet with Biden’s Cabinet executives and US business leaders.