IF karaoke ever made its way into diplomatic protocol, outgoing United States Ambassador MaryKay Loss Carlson could easily take the cake as its major advocate.
In a heartfelt farewell statement released on Wednesday, Carlson signed off not just with policy achievements and partnership milestones, but with a sentimental nod to the Filipino Christmas classic “Kumukutikutitap,” which she embraces as the anthem that encapsulates her tour of duty in the country.
Carlson, who ends her ambassadorial role after three-and-a-half years, reflected on what she called the “highlight of [her] forty-year career” in an essay that mirrored the warmth, depth and shared joys she discovered in the Philippines.
“It’s not about how well you sing; it’s about the shared experience that helps build meaningful relationships,” she wrote, referencing the local custom of asking new arrivals about their go-to karaoke song — a tradition that took her by surprise.
Her choice? Ryan Cayabyab’s “Kumukutikutitap.”
But her send-off was no mere love letter. The ambassador marked milestones in US-Philippine relations that grew in scope and strength during her term: expanded military cooperation, high-level visits from American officials and trade leaders; and more than 500 joint security activities and exercises in each of the last three years.
Carlson also noted the Luzon Economic Corridor launched with Japan, and over $313 million in US assistance committed just in 2025 — from health initiatives to maritime security.
“This relationship shapes lives, drives progress and prosperity, and secures futures on both sides of the Pacific,” she said.
She vowed to remain an advocate for US-Philippine relations, especially with a landmark 2026 on the horizon — marking 80 years of diplomatic ties, the 75th anniversary of the Mutual Defense Treaty and the 10th anniversary of the landmark United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea ruling upholding Philippine maritime claims.
Still, it was the people — and the spirit of Filipino hospitality — that took center stage in Carlson’s farewell. She credited that same warmth for softening the nerves of a first-time karaoke participant and making even official engagements feel personal.
“In the Philippines, contacts become colleagues; colleagues become friends; and friends become family,” she said.
“Maraming, maraming salamat at hanggang sa muli,” she wrote in closing. “So, what’s my song? ‘Kumukutikutitap.’”