MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Following the national elections, US President Joe Biden talked with presumptive Philippine President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., emphasizing his intentions to continue strengthening the mutual alliance. 

According to the White House, the conversation took place on May 11 (US time), and Biden congratulated Marcos Jr.

“President Biden underscored that he looks forward to working with the President-elect to continue strengthening the U.S.-Philippine Alliance while expanding bilateral cooperation on a wide range of issues, including the fight against COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, promoting broad-based economic growth, and respect for human rights,” the White House statement said. 

Marcos extended an invitation to Biden to attend his inauguration.

“I have also invited President Biden to my inaugural on June 30, which could further fortify the relationship of the two countries,” Marcos stated in a statement.

Biden and Marcos also discussed improving trade and diplomatic ties and their shared values of democracy, self-determination, and economic recovery.

According to Manila’s top envoy to the United States Jose Manuel Romualdez, Biden told Marcos that the United States would continue to support the Philippines’ post-pandemic recovery efforts.

“He said we will work together amid pandemic, and we will continue to value our relationship and continue to strengthen our democracy,” Romualdez said.

Marcos has nearly 56 percent of the vote, more than double that of his nearest competitor, liberal Leni Robredo, according to initial results. 

Even though he waits for the vote counting to finish, Marcos stated in his first press conference that 31 million Filipinos have “voted for unity.” – WhatALife!

Source: (abs-cbn)

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