MALACAÑANG on Saturday welcomed the inauguration of US President Donald Trump and his declared “America First” policy which promises a new spring for US-Philippine relations.
“The Philippines welcomes President Trump’s foreign policy direction. It promises a more placid and mutually beneficial relationship especially with long-standing allies like us,” said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
“We find resonance with their intention to ‘seek friendship and goodwill and reinforce existing alliances, without imposing America’s way of life on others’,” Abella said.
“While there is a promise of spring US-ward, as an independent and sovereign nation we will expand our collaboration with other friends and partners in the international community, in accordance with the principles of international law,” he added.
Abella said Trump’s “America First” policy is similar to the policies of the Duterte administration.
“In like manner national interest is the primary consideration that guides President Rodrigo Duterte. His pursuit of peace and order is the bedrock of economic inclusivity and self-sufficiency.”
Duterte’s spokesman said that the Philippines will be focusing on strengthening its relationship not only with the US, but to other countries as well.
“Our diplomatic ties need to reflect our long-standing relationship but under terms and conditions that protect our people’s interests,” Abella said. “The community of nations prosper as each one seeks its common good, and when it comes together to support the well-being of our common humanity.”
“Our priority remains to be the common good of the Filipino people and the national interest,” he added.
On a policy declaration on its website, the White House said the Trump administration is committed to a foreign policy focused on American interests and American national security.
“Defeating ISIS and other radical Islamic terror groups will be our highest priority. To defeat and destroy these groups, we will pursue aggressive joint and coalition military operations when necessary.
“In addition, the Trump administration will work with international partners to cut off funding for terrorist groups, to expand intelligence sharing, and to engage in cyberwarfare to disrupt and disable propaganda and recruiting.
“Next, we will rebuild the American military. Our Navy has shrunk from more than 500 ships in 1991 to 275 in 2016. Our Air Force is roughly one- third smaller than in 1991. President Trump is committed to reversing this trend, because he knows that our military dominance must be unquestioned.
“Finally, in pursuing a foreign policy based on American interests, we will embrace diplomacy. The world must know that we do not go abroad in search of enemies, that we are always happy when old enemies become friends, and when old friends become allies.
“The world will be more peaceful and more prosperous with a stronger and more respected America,” the White House said.
