The United States of America honored Filipino and American frontliners responding to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic as the two nations marked the Philippine-American Friendship Day Saturday, July 4.
As the United States marked its 244th Independence Day, it also celebrated the "long history of collaboration and friendship between the two nations on Philippine-American Friendship Day."
"While we may be socially distancing due to the ongoing pandemic, Americans and Filipinos stand united as we partner to fight the spread COVID-19 and support heroic frontline responders," US Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim said in a message.
"A special thanks to the Filipino and American frontline responders for your bravery and dedicated service in these challenging times," the ambassador added.
The American diplomat also highlighted the US-Philippines partnership during these trying times, saying that the collaboration between two nations is "as relevant and important today as it ever was."
"Together, we are creating education and leadership opportunities for the youth, developing new trade and investment opportunities that create jobs and spur economic growth, protecting marine resources, and supporting peace and security," Kim said.
He cited the joint successes of both countries in terms of higher education, health, technology, and maritime science.
He noted that in February, the US embassy in partnership with marine conservation groups, hosted the first hackatons summit to develop solutions to protect the Philippines marine ecosystem and expand on marine research cooperation.
"Even after three and a half years serving as US ambassador to the Philippines, I continue to be truly honored by the power and impact of US-Philippine partnership and its core of deep friendship unlocks the potential of our people through the exchange of ideas, express opinions, and policies that enable pursuit of opportunities," the ambassador expressed.
"The democratic norms and ideals that form the backbone of our special ties will guide the friendship between the Americans and Filipinos well into the future," he concluded.