President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. assured Filipino immigrants in the United States on Tuesday of his administration’s focus on their concerns, following a phone conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump.
Speaking to reporters, President Marcos said he congratulated Trump during their brief exchange.
He noted that many Filipino-Americans supported Trump in the elections, which he believes could enhance goodwill between the two leaders and foster collaboration on key issues affecting Filipinos in the US.
“Filipino-Americans played a major role in the US elections, and it’s something we can build upon to strengthen our relationship further,” Mr. Marcos said.
Although the call did not delve into Trump’s immigration policies or specific concerns about Filipino immigrants, Mr. Marcos assured the public that his administration is taking proactive steps to address these matters.
He highlighted the work of the Philippine ambassador to the US, who he said is closely monitoring and engaging on immigration-related issues.
“It’s a priority for us to ensure that the needs and welfare of Filipino immigrants are addressed,” Marcos said, adding that the call was “very friendly and productive.”
Marcos shared that Trump fondly remembered his mother, former first lady Imelda Marcos, whom he described as a friend.
“He asked, ‘How is Imelda?’ and I told him she sends her regards,” the President recounted.
The two leaders also discussed plans to meet in person, with Trump suggesting that their meeting could take place after his inauguration.
While the conversation was primarily focused on congratulatory remarks, Mr. Marcos emphasized that the Philippines remains committed to strengthening its partnership with the United States, especially as both nations navigate challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Our relationship with the US is built on decades of cooperation, and it’s one we will continue to cultivate,” he said.
