Marcos hopes for stronger ties in congratulatory message to Trump

Metro Manila, Philippines - President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he sees a stronger Philippine-United States alliance under a Trump presidency.

"Congratulations to POTUS (@realdonaldtrump) and to the American people on another peaceful transfer of power in their Nation’s nearly 250-year history. I look forward to working closely with you and your Administration," said Marcos in a post on X (former Twitter) on the inauguration of US President Donald Trump.

"The strong and lasting PH-US alliance will continue to uphold our shared vision of prosperity and security in the region," he added.

In a previous interview with Philippine Ambassador to United States Jose Manuel Romualdez on NewsWatch Plus, the envoy said he is confident that Trump will continue to forge stronger ties with the Philippines.

"I don't see any reason why it should not because it is really for the benefit of both our countries, Japan and the US. I was fortunate na nakausap ko nang good conversation with President Trump but all indications are gusto niya ituloy ‘yung strong relationship between the US and the Philippines. So obviously, yung Japan is also an important part of our relationship in terms of mutual interest in the region at saka economic prosperity," said Romualdez.

[Translation: I don’t see any reason why it should not continue because it's really for the benefit of our countries, Japan and the US. I was fortunate to have had a good conversation with President Trump, and all indications are that he wants to continue the strong relationship between the US and the Philippines. Obviously, Japan is also an important part of this relationship in terms of mutual interests in the region and economic prosperity.]

Romualdez attended the inauguration of Trump at the US Capitol Rotunda in Washington, D. C.