President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. expressed appreciation to outgoing United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson, citing her contributions to strengthening the long-standing alliance between the Philippines and the United States.
In a message posted on his official Facebook account on Thursday, Mr. Marcos thanked Carlson for her service as she concluded her tenure in Manila, saying her work helped deepen cooperation between the two treaty allies.
“The Philippines expresses its appreciation to Ambassador MaryKay Carlson for her service and contributions to strengthening the Philippines–United States alliance,” President Marcos wrote.
He added that the government looks forward to continuing close cooperation with Washington.
Carlson has served as US ambassador during a period of expanded security, economic, and people-to-people engagement between the two countries, anchored on the Mutual Defense Treaty and enhanced by growing regional security concerns in the Indo-Pacific.
During her farewell call, President Marcos conferred the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu Katangiang Ginto (Grand Cross, Gold Distinction) to Ambassador Carlson—a prestigious diplomatic honor.
American President Donald Trump has nominated businessman Lee Lipton to succeed Carlson as US ambassador to the Philippines, subject to Senate confirmation.
The Philippines and the United States have reaffirmed their alliance under the Marcos administration, with increased joint military exercises, defense cooperation and diplomatic engagement.
