MANILA, Philippines — United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday informed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that President Donald Trump held him "in high esteem" as he reaffirmed Washington's commitment to its relationship with Manila.
Rubio, accompanied by US Ambassador to Manila Lee Lipton, paid Marcos a courtesy call in Malacanang. Rubio is in Manila to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM).
The Philippines on Monday began hosting the 59th AMM and Related Meetings, bringing together Asean foreign ministers to advance the country's chairmanship priorities, strengthen Asean unity and centrality, and deepen regional and international cooperation.
The President thanked Rubio for his visit despite his busy schedule. "I’m very glad, as I mentioned to you, we watch the news and so we were surprised that you are still able to find time to visit with us," Marcos said.
In response, Rubio said, "Thank you for welcoming me, first of all, and to congratulate you on the great job hosting this conference, which, in addition to being so critically important for the region, provides us the opportunity to interact with so many countries."
"In addition to visiting here for the conference, we wanted to visit with you. You know how much the President holds you in high esteem; you had a very positive meeting last year in Washington," Rubio said.
"And this is a country that has deep ties to the United States in many ways and it’s a partnership that is only growing, and in light of recent events, it’s become more important than ever," he said.
Rubio added, "So, we’re glad to be with you today and to reaffirm that relationship and our commitment to the US and Philippines’ relationship."
"It’s also important to be here I think just two weeks into our new ambassador here, who I know is going to do a great job," Rubio added referring to Lipton.
