A diplomat underscored the deepening commercial and economic partnership between the Philippines and the US during the second day of the Arangkada Philippine Investment Forum.
US Embassy in Manila deputy chief of mission Robert Ewing described the bilateral relationship as one “defined by shared history, democratic values, and strengthened by a commercial partnership that grows deeper each year,” adding that the partnership comes “at a better time than ever.”
Ewing noted that the US remains among the top sources of foreign direct investment in the Philippines and cited the confidence of US companies in the country’s “vibrant and dynamic market.”
Ewing highlighted the US government’s recent announcement of $250 million in new assistance for the Philippines to address priority public health challenges, including tuberculosis, maternal and child health, and disease prevention.
This adds to the more than $60 million in assistance announced during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s visit to Washington in July. That aid covered programs on energy, maritime security and economic growth.
Ewing also cited ongoing cooperation under the Luzon Economic Corridor initiative, a partnership with Japan and other allies aimed at catalyzing investment, creating jobs and spurring growth in transport, logistics, energy and technology.
US agencies such as the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and the International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) are already supporting feasibility studies and financing opportunities for flagship infrastructure projects, including the Subic-Clark-Manila-Batangas Railway.
American companies, he said, continue to expand their footprint in the Philippines, citing the shipbuilding complex in Subic Bay and the record-setting US-ASEAN Business Council mission to Manila in August, which brought over 30 US firms to explore opportunities across agriculture, healthcare, aerospace, and defence.
“US industry continues to see the Philippines not only as a place to do business, but as a long-term partner to build secure supply chains and advance innovation,” Ewing said.
He said bilateral cooperation would be guided by the US-Philippines Strategic Dialogue, which will set directions on security, economic and commercial priorities.
